Ysolda Knits Episode 7 | Revealing My Controversial Knitting Process

[@kwosilait2855]

It makes so much sense to use a knitting machine in design, even if the intent is to knit the patterns by hand. I so appreciate your attention to detail and commitment to making an inclusive size range, and I'm delighted that you're using tools available to you to make your process go more quickly and smoothly!

[@tammyc4283]

I think it gives more transparency to the process of knitting quickly rather than giving off an appearance of being a super fast manual knitter and knocking out patterns every other week. Bravo for being honest and transparent. Thank you. I’ve used a flatbed knitting machine some and would like to know how you get the gauge to match up when you switch from the two. I would like to see more of your flatbed to circular needles process. Beautiful work no matter how you got there.

[@katlady1019]

Thank you for sharing your process. As a knitter benefitting from the amazing work of knitwear designers (a mystery to me how you make that happen 😊), I think using a machine to expedite the process is brilliant. Thanks for all the time and effort and care you put into your work - it’s a gift to knitters like me who are happy to have all the design work done for us. And I love the new sweater design!!!

[@harbourcolour]

I am very interested to learn more about your design process including the machine knitting parts. Whatever you do to get your samples and prototypes finished is perfect in my books... and entirely your decision. No one else should tell you how to get to your finished projects. I love that you share with us how you come up with designs. I am always awed by the amount of intricate thought that goes into your garments in particular. Well done!

[@susanmcdermid7663]

As a designer you are entitled to get to the end result as you choose. As knitters we are entitled to get to the end result as we choose. Thank you for your honesty. Keep on designing your lovely patterns and we'll keep knitting them.

[@corriemcclain7960]

As a pragmatist and a spoonie, using the machine the way you do makes perfect sense. It makes me trust your process more because it tell me you have the brain space to get things perfect rather than deciding to say good enough because of the time invested in samples

[@barbfrench4404]

How lovely to see you recording again. Regarding your process: do whatever works for you! As long as you don't require me to use a machine, you can get to that finished object however you wish. You are brilliant and I am always happy to see your designs. I have thought of a sock machine to speed up sock knitting, but the actual knitting with my hands is how I save my mental health so I don't ever see giving that up. Thank you for being real and vulnerable in such a public way.

[@kimashizawa1835]

Dear Ysolda, the knitting machine is a piece of technology, just like a telephone, a computer, etc. All technology is valuable because it maximizes efficiency. You are a knitwear artist and using the machine does not take away from that. Don't sweat the small stuff! You're terrific~

[@margueritefoley1262]

It was so nice to see you pop up in my YT feed! It makes perfect sense to use whatever tools/methods facilitate your design process. After all, you are a professional knit designer, not a leisure or hobby knitter. I respect and admire your candor and transparency. I always learn something when I watch your podcasts. Keep doing what works for you to produce your excellent patterns.

[@kirstymcleod6647]

You had me at “spreadsheet”…. My inner nerd went “👉 SQUIRREL!” …😅

[@carolmelancon]

That's what did it for me when I (late to the party) was researching why the Musselburgh hat was popping up everywhere on my feed. When I saw a spreadsheet was included - "Take my money 💸! "

[@timslade7527]

I would love to hear more about your knitting machine(s). Thanks for your honesty and insights

[@ChairBriere]

YOU are the designer and how you go about preparing and testing patterns in a way that simplifies your process, especially as a neurodivergent person, is entirely up to you. I think it's fantastic, really, and I also think it's honourable and appropriate for you to not 'out' other designers who do this.

[@ekast5446]

Don't worry about machine knitting ... as long as u make sure that those who hand knit have all info who cares how u personally knit. And yes I would love to see how u knit on machine. Very interesting also how u combine machine and part hand knitting etc like tension issues etc. so wonderful to see your knitting works. Cheers!!!

[@kimsechrest2202]

I don't have an issue with you designing with a knitting machine--as long as me as hand knitter can knit your patterns, why should it matter? It shouldn't....I do appreciate your honesty in putting it out there and I would hope other designers would be honest about it as well (if asked). Nice to see you back. Looking forward to any new releases you have coming. Happy Knitting.

[@Nickyknits]

It's really interesting to hear about your process for designing. It makes me feel better about how slow I am at knitting 😂. I would love to hear more about the behind the scenes if you feel comfortable to do so.

[@cmf4917]

I love that you shared all this information. I’m such a big fan of yours that I want to see it all, doesn’t matter if machines or hands! Show us your machines and that process when you are able. I like your simple videos like today, meaning less setup and work for you, and often, please. Sending you love and happiness. Cathy

[@Needtoknit1]

Hello Ysolda, I think you a wonderful person and designer. I feel you should do what works best for you. Make your life easier. You provide us with such great patterns. The sweater you are wearing is beautiful. I cannot wait until you have it out for us to purchase.

[@ylennon299]

This was so informative and it makes so much sense! I don't have a problem with you using all the tools to help with your design process. Definitely don't consider it cheating

[@judeoliver5256]

Would just love to see how you incorporate the machine into your work! Such a fine idea.

[@melindastowers7772]

Oh I find this fascinating! I have zero issues with you developing a design process that allows you to move through your creative needs as you see fit. It does make me wonder if I would enjoy a knitting machine...

[@Jerseymimi16]

I'm a hand knitter myself but I'm thinking future patterns might include ways to use a knitting machine along with hand knitting. At the end of the day we are all creating fabric that we love and are proud of. And the different ways to knit are fascinating to learn about. Diversity allows people to create and learn new skills too and might also help people with physical challenges to enjoy making with yarn!

[@hatoarketa5720]

It saves your valuable time and precious hands!!!! Good for your working ingenious brain. Keep thinking outside the box!

[@sandyrinehart5566]

I think many designers use a knitting machine in order to show progress with their designs. I have loved all the patterns I have purchased from you. All the ideas and demonstrations on KZbin videos you have shared. I appreciate your willingness to share your craft. Thank you 🧶🧶

[@vacirca11]

Do not over think your process- whether you hand knit or use a machine does not matter to me. When I visited Shetland both hand knitting and machine knitting were used on most gorgeous garments. Ultimately we are lucky to live in a time that allows us choices. So embrace the gift you have and all the beautiful crafts you are sharing with us crafters. The fact that you are also a mathematician using spreadsheets and computers is another awesome gift. I was a math teacher for over 40 years- Every few years our community had long discussions about calculators, graphing calculators, cobalt programming, computers, and now AI.. So again don't sweat the small stuff. Keep doing what's good for you and us receivers of your beautiful patterns.

[@sunnyw4148]

Knitting is knitting. I have always enjoyed knitting your patterns and will continue to do so. I have always wondered how knitwear designers do it all.

[@fiona__knits]

I’ve been a hand knitter since I was little (now 60!) but I also dabbled in machine knitting back in the 90’s. I loved it! My old second hand knitting machine has long since gone, I just about wore it out! I would love to know which machine you use. I think it makes perfect sense to use hand knitting and machine knitting together and as someone with Rheumatoid arthritis I have to look after my joints! I’m currently knitting a 4ply colour work sweater and coming to the end of the yoke. I’m thinking what a great idea to whizz off the stockinet part on a machine! Thank you for sharing your process, I’m off to research knitting machines 😂

[@isabelespiritosanto]

I think that everything that can help you to design more efficiently can never be a bad thing. I never machine knitted, but my mom knitted for sale and I remember how distressing the process was. She used to hand knit to relax from the machine knitting, which she hated and stoped doing as soon as she could.

[@jessicasteele9975]

Hi Ysolda, it’s nice to see you back! I appreciate so much the way you talk about your patterns and especially your process. Machine knitting is a tricky skill that requires a lot of thought and decisions as well. I would love to see more about how you think through and execute designs and swatches on the machine and in combo with hand knitting. I’m sorry you had to feel nervous about talking about it. Thank you for your thoughtfulness!

[@cydniehoughton]

Thanks for sharing your processes. I’d love to hear more about what goes into the designing of projects especially the technical and grading parts and tools used. Happy Knitting! 😄

[@ludouglas1]

Hi, love the stripes, they're classic and everywhere atm. Don't worry about your absence. We as viewers know that podcasters make the big return to an episode because they have something they want to sell and they need their followers as customers. Knowing designers machine knit some samples doesn't bother us at all!! They can already knit and have knitted thousands of stitches. I don't mind how they reach their end product as long as the gauge they want handknitters to achieve is possible. The hard part is designing and grading.

[@saras1458]

Makes perfect sense to me! Ultimately, your goal is to produce patterns for all of us. The produce from that pattern is the afterthought, so seems to me you should do what makes that process most successful.

[@GeorgeBrown-yr1dm]

I really enjoyed your podcast. No worries about using a knitting machine. I love to knit in the round but can see how working with a knitting machine might make the design process run more smoothly. I like the look of the new sweater and will enjoy trying the pattern when it comes out. More designs for children always welcome.

[@AnnikenAllis]

Using a knitting machine is fine as long as knitters know. The stitches will be more uniform & even & hand-knitters can look at that & feel inadequate because they won't get the same look hand-knitting with the same yarn. I was teaching in a yarn shop where they displayed socks supplied by the yarn company & I was asked why the socks looked so perfect (uniform stitches) & they were surprised when I said the socks were machine knitted. But if the garment looks the same hand-knitted as machine knitted that's fine.

[@0165newman]

I love that you share your process and I am really interested in the technical aspects of the design process. I now appreciate how much work goes into this and I am really keen to hear more. I use Excel a lot for work (not knitting related) so this aspect of your talk is very interesting and I would be keen to know more aobut this.

[@laurad2436]

Funny, I just assumed designers sometimes used knitting machines to allow them to help with the process- especially now with more size exclusivity. I trust your patterns and appreciate that it gives you more time to concentrate on true design and fit details. I can’t wait to try your new design with the modified drop shoulder!

[@Kialas]

Very interesting. I have used a knitting machine before and I'd like to know more about your process. There must be a lot to learn about your own machine and how you can get the fabric to match the hand knitted one. I have been dreaming about being able to machine knit one day again and I totally would combine the two techniques. I like how you are transparent about your design process, it helps others. Thank you.

[@gamerbabedesigns]

Thanks so much for sharing your process. As a designer, I've used a knitting machine to make samples. It's been a lifesaver when I've had tight deadlines to get samples done, and especially when I needed to get samples done for two different patterns in the same timeframe. Also as a designer and technical editor, I'd love to hear more about how you're creating custom functions in Excel and how you're linking Excel and InDesign. I've only tried linking Word files to InDesign which has thrown off the formatting so I just keep copying and pasting...

[@maggiefish79]

Ysolda, you just said that machine knitting is faster …until something goes wrong. I laughed out loud because I am rehanging a piece on my knitting machine that I messed up! I machine AND hand knit. They are both satisfying!

[@catblues8645]

Hello Ysolda, this is the first of your videos that I watched (although your name has been familiar for a long time through other podcasters and patterns). I love hearing about the design process and also about the grading and tech editing, as I'm definitely on the nerdy side of knitting (ADHD and probably some autism involved 😄). Also I loved hearing about the Woolly Good Gathering with the focus on accessibility, even though I currently wouldn't have the spoons to travel to Scotland (my favourite country). Looking forward to watching more of your videos and learning about knitware design! Also - using a knitting machine for the straight stockinette portions of samples just makes SO much sense. Those are my least favourite bits, as my brain needs a bit more engangement to kick it in gear 😅

[@robinmccamont]

Construction builders don’t always hammer in every nail using a hammer; sometimes they choose to use a nail gun! Knowing when to use a specific tool during the process is part of the “art” of construction. The same is true with knitting! I truly appreciate your transparency in bringing up the subject about how you are using knitting machines in your process, though, because I could see how nervous you were about it. It’s just another tool in your design process, though. You publish lovely patterns, and I wish you the best of luck in your future endeavors, Ysolda!

[@hbknits]

I don’t think that using a knitting machine as part of your design process is cheating at all. Makes perfect sense. You can’t possibly knit samples in all sizes and try all the elements if you’re doing it all by hand. Streamlining your design process and making it more efficient is a positive thing- and I’m sure we’d all be pleased to see more designs from you:) The new design looks awesome and comfy. (I do a very small amount of quilting- but I take my quilt tops to a machine quilter to get the quilting done- otherwise nothing would get finished😂)

[@beaudoin1987]

I would love to hear more about how you are incorporating a knitting machine. I imagine it makes your design process more efficient. Thanks for sharing.

[@donnabourcier5588]

I just recently started using machine knitting. My grandson wanted me to make him a queen size blanket, I just physically can’t hand knit that much. I think using a combo of both hand and machine knitting gives us a great advantage to make more items. I think it is smart and there is no shame in working smarter.

[@valeriebishop561]

Use your knitting machine of course! especially for the 'sloggy' bits. Yes on the review of the book. I would like to learn more about fitting so I bet that would be interesting. Thank you!

[@phyllisburke4141]

I’ve always wanted to try machine knitting. Good for you trying to speed up your process. Lots of people use a machine to knit sock tube which is totally accepted. Same issues as hand quilt or machine quilt there are purists. I say do what works for you.

[@MaudeCassie]

Thanks for sharing your process. I find it very interesting. Designing is such a different thing than the finished product that you sell. In the end if your customers can create the knitted object from your pattern, all is good! Love your desire to be transparent. Love your patterns. ❤❤❤

[@rosemaryc9093]

My first time watching you and it was fascinating. Using a knitting machine for part of the samples makes sense. And from the comments, I can see that most of us appreciate the creativity and work of the design process far more than the process of knitting a sample. I’ll look forward to seeing you again.

[@andreagaughanknits]

Wow, using a knitting machine for design work makes SO much sense - I had never considered that possibility! What machine do you use and how did you learn to use it? I would be super interested to see an in depth video about machine knitting!

[@suzannejones5992]

I knit using needles,looms and machines. If love some of your patterns for the machine. I also have the lk150 and a silver Reed standard guage. I have looms for hats socks and what ever you want. Susan guagliami is one of the best known knitwear designers of our time. She uses machines so does Diana sullivan.

[@gillianstitches]

Watching while I knit the Studio Sweater. I was so excited to see you have tall measurements in this pattern. My long torso enjoys being part of a pattern! ☺️

[@kad40]

I don’t think that it’s cheating at all. It’s just a different hand making knitting technique and tool. I’ve been very curious to see the process. Demystifying the machine knitting process is a great way to educate people.Thanks so much for your transparency.

[@cloknits]

Using a knitting machine is simply a smart business decision in my opinion. I have 2 and they've been in boxes for years due to lack of space. You make me want to go get them out now!!!

[@jo-annefalconer6280]

Facinating in site into your processes I would love to learn more.

[@janet_Luv2_Knit]

Absolutely agree with you using a way to expedite your process when the expectation today is a large range of sizes. Love your patterns as there is always so much thought put into them. Would be very interested to see how you integrate the two parts of your process. Looking forward to your new pattern as I love the way you have done the stripes.

[@louiseevans9283]

I really like the way you've designed that drop sleeve with a raglen detail.

[@mstryk4yt]

Machine knitting is not cheating per se since you are designer and this is your full-time job. Of course you want to make your job more time-efficient. I think it may become a problem if tester knitters for example are expected to deliver the FO in shorter amount of time, impecable stitches, etc. And if we purchase the pattern, knit it but do not see the same stitch quality or get disappointed with our FOs because hand knit is not as consistent as machine knit.

[@ysoldateague]

Oh absolutely, I think it’s important for all sorts of reasons to give testers plenty of time & my calculations for that are based more on feedback than how long something took me to knit. Weirdly I often find the machine knit sections aren’t any more perfectly neat than the hand knit ones, there are still things that can affect the tension.

[@juliao9146]

Using all the tools at your disposal in order to make better patterns and meet your design goals just makes sense. I love your patterns and how much care you take to make your designs work so well for so many people. Anything that makes that easier for you is great, because that just means more patterns for us to enjoy!

[@Andrea-di9ju]

I never thought about designers using a machine to knit part of their work, but that makes so much sense. And honestly, it make me feel a bit better since it takes me weeks to knit one sweater with a pattern in front of me. I think it’s smart and an efficient use of time and resources. Definitely not “cheating”

[@nicolelafontaine1720]

I love your new sweater design, although I would not be wearing horizontal stripes, but I could knit it plain. Design work is such a challenge, I am happy if you can get tools that help you a bit, no worries !

[@cassandracurtis7207]

I've heard another knitwear designer compare knitting and machine knitting to be akin to hand sewing and machine sewing. Both require skill, artistry and know how. Having tried a machine sock knitting machine it definitely is its own animal and it can be a challenge to 'feel' tension with a machine since I'm used to using my hands. If it aid the design process so more patterns are available and we all make the world a more beautiful place with more yarn in it I say go for it.

[@Marielm1]

If the pattern I purchase works, I genuinely don’t care even a little how you got there! Your patterns have so much thought and care. Create your way. Don’t apologize.

[@monacarterknight8117]

I love that you are using time efficient ways to sample and test your designs. Unless a sewist uses only needle and thread as a requirement to call sewing or quilting handmade, a machine for knitting efficiently is no less handmade than using a sewing machine or a spinning machine or a complicated loom. I'm so glad you've found a way to help you create your beautiful designs for us.❤🧶♥️

[@melanieperkins2450]

I think using the knitting machine is so smart! Selfishly, it means there might be more patterns from you to knit, which is always a great thing. I loved the window into your process. I used to handknit socks. Now I use my circular sock machine. If I want colorwork or fancy lace on the leg, I handknit that, then hang the stitches and finish on the machine. Not cheating. Just smart.

[@jilliankonig2759]

I'm not a tech expert, but I think in Excel, you can create a row above all of your columns, where the text is turned sideways, that explains what the number in that column refers to, so that you don't need to look at your schematic to remember what, for example, b2 refers to. The description could be as simple as "side length from armhole to ribbing" or as complex as "neck measurement plus shoulders times two", in case a cell contains the result of a computation.

[@Fandmvidz]

In my opinion a person who uses a productivity aid to assist them doing their “job” faster should be commended. A designer who incorporates a knitting machine to help them design I appreciate because they would be able to share their designs quicker and that benefits me because I don’t design. So anything you can do to make your move easier and quicker is great. HOWEVER, the garment picture that is posted with the pattern which is sold as “handknitted” should be just that a hand knitted garment. I don’t believe any ethical designer’s would do that and the reason I follow you and find your designs some of my favourite to knit is I feel you are a very ethical knitter. I have been following you for a very long time and have been pleased to see how you continue to grow as a designer and share the knowledge you’ve gained in your journey with the rest of us. I hope you continue for a long time and if you find any aids along the way to help you….good on you.

[@nancysici1286]

I wouldn’t worry about machine knitting part of your sweater patterns. I’d like to see how it’s done. I think anyone purchasing a pattern will want to be sure it can be replicated with hand knitting so maybe you could partially machine knit for speed but then use test hand knitters to ensure the pattern can be fully replicated by hand. PS love the sweater you’re wearing but I find most hand knit sweaters end up being too boxy and unflattering. Would you consider making a pattern that yields a more fitted sweater? Spreadsheet nerd here do would be interested to see anything you’d like to share. ❤

[@ysoldateague]

You might enjoy going through my back catalogue - I’ve been designing for years and definitely have several sweaters from when the trend was for more fitted styles. Although I am starting to see more interest in fitted garments again so we’ll see!

[@amyedwards3401]

I would love to see your machine knit process. As long as the same result can be achieved by hand as well as by machine, I have no issue with you using a machine! I’m all for efficiency and using the tools you’ve got.

[@sarahe.punderson3475]

Back in 1981 I helped a friend meet her deadline of knitting 2 dresses for Glamour magazine. She wrote the patterns and did the finishing but I knit the body on my machine. (I am primarily a hand knitter, in fact I no longer have machines). They were on the cover and no one ever questioned it. I don’t know how to add a photo or you could see the cover (Whitney Houston was one of the models!)

[@StickToYourKnitting]

I find this process fascinating. I do not think it seems as if you are “cheating” at all. It makes complete sense to me. How do you manage tension and gauge when you switch from machine to hand knitting? Perhaps it doesn’t matter to you because the end result is “just” a prototype?

[@ysoldateague]

By knitting a lot of large swatches, wet blocking them and meticulously recording the settings or needle sizes. Even how tightly the yarn is wound can make a difference.

[@joanfosburg5173]

This might equate to a contractor building a house with an electric drill as opposed to using a hand screwdriver.

[@lizabethtowers5557]

Thanks, Ysolda, for sharing your process. Hooray for time-saving tools! I'm interested in knowing what kind of knitting machine you are using or would recommend. Thanks.

[@Rop6ckc]

Use the tools available to you. I don't think you need to apologize. 👍

[@robfeldmann355]

I recently discovered your channel and am so happy I did because I simply cannot get enough of you sharing your design process with us. I doubt I'll ever become a real designer, but I like to modify things and I'm fascinated by the world of grading patterns, knitting maths, tech editing, etc. I like planning and charting my projects in a spreadsheets before getting started, so I just relate to so much of your journey. Unlike software development, which I do by day, it's hard to find resources on how to learn this stuff. Thank you for all you do!

[@marybeth123]

I absolutely see nothing wrong with you using a machine to help in the designing process. It’s no different than a manufacturing company trying to be more efficient with their time. Nothing replaces hand knitting and you are not suggesting that at all. You are a talented designer and know machine knitting helps you to come out with patterns to share faster than if you were to hand knit each sample during the process. ❤

[@chomskysdream]

I knit how I knit (and how I do it may change over time!) but I absolutely trust that a designer like you knows what they are doing and can use a different technique, especially when you are cranking out many more dozens of items I ever am. You do you! I appreciate the transparency but it doesn't change my awe for what and how you create.

[@hannawoods7600]

I love both hand and machine knitting and am increasingly fascinated by combining the two. Woodturning isn’t thought of as a cheat way to carve wood, not should machine knitting be thought as such. Machine knitting is an art in itself as well as a great tool to speed up certain processes. I suffered a stroke a few weeks back and have for now lost the use of my dominant hand, so I’m doubly grateful to know I will continue knitting, even if far less of it will be possible by hand. Thank you for all you do and produce - I continue to admire your integrity and openness. I’d be very interested in more insight of the pattern writing process as and when you have time!

[@ysoldateague]

That’s great to hear that machine knitting has made it more accessible for you to continue knitting!

[@karenh9337]

@hannawoods7600 - I'm so sorry to that you had a stroke recently. I will be 59 years old on July 8th. On June 17, 2024 it will be my 3rd year anniversary of my stroke. My left side was affected but it was my non-dominant side. However, I did all the PT, OT, & Speech Pathology for 30 days (thats all insurance would cover at home & I really couldnt travel) but I continued all the exercises I was taught & worked very hard to regain most function of my left side. Also, my brain (especially memory, I now have a stutter, etc.) has been severely affected more so than the physical problems. When I came home from the hospital I grabbed my knitting & was so upset at how I couldnt keep tension. I also couldnt figure out any cast-ons without a tutorial! But I was persistant & practiced my exercises everyday & practiced knitting on a new project (a hat I think) & tried to let my "muscle memory" take over & one day it happened! I remembered a cast on & I did it physically with no problem! Hopefully you will regain use of your dominant side & will be able to knit again by hand. Maybe a knitting machine will be in your future! A new knitting adventure using your non-dominant hand! That might allow you to keep knitting!! I do wish you all the healing you can possible get & that knitting remains in your life!! Maybe you will invent a tool that disabled people will love to use! Then your a millionaire! Haha! Im sorry but I have to keep a sense of humor along with my knitting so I dont go down a depressing rabbit hole. Best of luck to you! Never give up!!

[@hannawoods7600]

Hi Karen, your message means such a lot - THANK YOU! You’re the first knitter I’ve come across who’s had a stroke -so all you tell me is hugely encouraging! I refused not to hand knit, despite tension problems and rather messy and exceedingly slow stitch by stitch knitting - in fact I had just bought some rather special yarn and decided on a pattern before the stroke happened, so (perhaps foolishly?)I decided to make a start despite the deficits! I’ve just about done the shoulders now (it’s a top down sweater) lol! When I get to the large section of stocking stitch, I might transfer to the machine…? On the other hand it’s all good therapy! I’ve just spoken to my GP and he is referring me to OT rehab, so I am hopeful that will help also. … and if nothing else, I’ll work on that kack handed knitting tool invention 🤣 (I’m almost 70, so that could take care of a nice little pension top up !!) You are inspiring! I do hope you get further improvements - the brain is so amazingly adaptive! Best wishes, Hanna x

[@MsFuzzyBuddy]

As someone who tried to use a CSM, I definitely see machine knitting as a skill. It takes a lot of time to figure it out and get used to it, and honestly, I haven't. Engineering Knits has a really great channel, and recommend her to anyone interested in machine knitting garments. It's not cheating at all imo. I think it just makes sense! It's cool that you have that in your arsenal.

[@LeticiaS678]

interesting! I have thought about getting a knitting machine as well for yoke sweaters. I don't think it's cheating!

[@desireeross9651]

I don’t see this as cheating. Machine knitting is also a skill. A friend does all her yolked sweater bodies on her machine

[@juliab.871]

I prefer it when you use the time to concentrate on the design rather than knitting every stitch by hand. And who should have the right to dictate how you work?

[@JadiesJars]

Oh yes, please share how you use your knitting machine. I have a LK 150 and would love to know how to better use it. No it’s not cheating. Don’t worry. Do what makes your design process easy. Just teach us along the way.

[@patriciabruno7374]

There are no businesses or industries that don't take advantage of technology to increase productivity. Why should knitting be any different ?love your patterns no matter how you create them !

[@jodybuell1222]

Thanks so much for sharing! You are an amazing designer and totally understand using a tool to help your process. Would love additional videos about your process creating your lovely designs.

[@Knicoleknits]

I have zero issue with anyone, including designers, incorporating machine knitting into their projects. After all, the machine is still operated BY HAND. There are only so many hours in a day! Now, off to buy myself a knitting machine... 😇😋

[@portraitsandpastimes]

I love that you shared about using the knitting machine in your design process. Designing patterns full time is a whole different ball game than just being a knitter. The machine is a tool just like needles....to make design life better....use all the tools you can! 👏

[@DebbieMatthews-sh4kh]

Good for you in sharing your process. Knitting machine, no problem.

[@chrise3639]

I just love that you shared your process. I absolutely enjoy the colorwork and interesting bits but honestly stockinette a body, I can do without. I hope you give us more info on how the process works for combining both hand and machine work. I really hope you give us more on the excel process and formulas. Very best to you on your designing journey.❤

[@misha76]

I love that you shared some of your designing process! It absolutely makes sense to integrate machine knitting into your process. Whatever works for you and makes life easier is best!

[@carol-anneandreetti9641]

I think it’s brilliant that you are combining the knitting machine and hand knitting techniques. I don’t think it’s cheating at all and makes sense when you are designing lots of items. I own a Bond very basic machine and I must dust it off and use it again. I used to do the straight bits of a garment on it, then knit ribs etc by hand. Then hand finishing. Looking forward to your next Knitworthy collection. ❤

[@maribethclark2798]

If you'd like to share with us your space & process. In my opinion, how could you not use a knitting machine. Glad to see you smiling in the first part 😊 I've only knit your Musselbourg, however sooo well written. I can't imagine knitting each stitch by hand, by God. You are awesome, be you!

[@dulcie808]

Thanks for being transparent! I'm all for anything that will give me more patterns sooner! It makes sense to use a knitting machine if it makes the designing process more efficient. You aren't selling garments and saying they were hand knit. I'm a fairly new knitter so I haven't knitted any garments besides shawls. I'm going to attempt my first sweater and I'm trying to find a pattern that has enough interest so I don't fall asleep while knitting. :)

[@LindaKarlinsky]

Show us more, machines are useful tools.

[@jennifertaffner8612]

I’m glad you shared that you sometimes use a machine to help knit and design. At points I have felt like a failure when I see a designer say they designed and knitted a sweater in a weekend when it takes me months . I know we all knit at our own pace but still... so thank you!!!

[@juliecasey3683]

I don't think it's "cheating" at all! :)

[@kathyroalson2534]

You are so calm and calming to listen to. I love the way you demonstrate a technique...you make it easy....I've watched several of them when I need guidance. No one should judge you for using a knitting machine. You are a designer...it's only for YOU to decide how you do that. I think you're very talented! Just bought the Musselbourgh hat pattern.. watched your bit to get me started, was easy. ❤

[@deekay5594]

not cheating. wish I has a machine to do it sometimes.

[@noriskern7385]

Thank you for sharing! It's very clever to use machines to help you with your process, so that others can handknit your patterns. Or machine knit! Who cares as long as one has fun and likes the result?

[@jennmarie123]

I think so long as the machine knit gauge matches the hand knit swatch (since it will likely be hand knit by the customer) then it's the same. And especially for the purpose of testing patterns many times in many sizes: if it's a time saver for you, we all benefit from your expertise. :) No judgement, no hate, just love. ❤

[@ysoldateague]

The most time consuming part might be the level of swatching we do so that the gauge is both achievable and seamless with hand knit sections. It’s a lot of testing!

[@nadinealcaraz9625]

Thank you for the “ behind the scenes “ details. It’s very interesting. And your sweater is very nice.

[@VisitWithNanaAndPapa]

I think you are amazing.

[@sqrrlzview]

I think it's great of you to share your process. I would think several designers may use tools end users might not realize or think about. Whether its a knitting machine, software etc really doesn't effect me as long as the finished pattern is thoroughly tested. Creativity is using everything available to you to achieve your desired results. Keep doing what you do. Love your work. Don't be so hard on yourself.