Author: Karen-designer

Celebrate my 14 years of Designing from the Beginning

Posted on by Karen-designer

As I celebrate my 14th year design anniversary, I can’t help but reflect on how this incredible journey began. What started as a hobby, fuelled by a bit of frustration, has blossomed into a passion that I’ve nurtured for over a decade

The Beginning: Frustration with Yarn Patterns

Years ago, my love for knitting and crochet led me to explore countless patterns from various yarn companies. While I found joy in creating, there was always one recurring issue: the patterns often didn’t accommodate cuddly sizes. As someone who believes that everyone deserves beautifully fitting handmade garments and not to have to miss out on having something that we would love to wear, I found myself constantly modifying these patterns to suit my more cuddly size. I was dismayed back then that the size range on more typically commercial patterns weren’t always sized for the real body. 

 

The Turning Point: A Push Towards Designing

I then found some indie designers who had a better idea of what a real body looked like and yes they were at that time more expensive than commercial patterns which were often low priced as loss leaders in the hope you bought that brand of yarn. What began as minor tweaks soon turned into significant alterations. I was essentially redesigning entire patterns to create pieces that were both stylish and inclusive. It was during this time that friends and indie designer friends noticed my efforts and began encouraging me to create my own designs. They saw potential in my work that I hadn’t fully recognised yet. Their support was the push I needed to take the leap into the world of design

Taking that first step into designing was both exciting and daunting. I spent countless hours experimenting with stitches, textures, and techniques. Each new design was a labour of love, a blend of creativity and technical skill. I dedicated myself to learning as much as possible about pattern making, ensuring that my designs were not only beautiful but also accessible to a wide range of sizes.

 

Looking Ahead: Celebrating 14 Years with You

The support from the knitting and crochet community has been overwhelming. Seeing my designs come to life in the hands of talented crafters around the world has been incredibly rewarding. Every piece shared, every kind word, and every constructive feedback has helped me grow as a designer.

As I mark this 14-year milestone, I want to give back to the community that has supported me throughout this journey. Starting August 5th, I will be sharing some of my favourites designs daily, celebrating the creativity and inclusivity that define my work. To thank you for your support, I’m offering a 25% discount with the code DESIGN14. And on August 12th, stay tuned for a special giveaway that I’m incredibly excited about!

Additionally, for those who want to stay in the loop and receive exclusive discounts, sign up for my newsletter. There might be a few surprises waiting for you there as well!

Newsletter Sign Up

My Final Thoughts

From altering patterns out of necessity to creating my own designs, this journey has been a testament to the power of creativity and community. Here’s to many more years of designing, learning, and growing together. I would love to share pictures of items knitted with my patterns, so please reach out via social media or email me on designer@karenbdesigns.co.uk.

Thank you for being a part of my journey.

 

Happy knitting!

Mental Health Awareness Week – Benefits Of Knitting & Crochet On Your Mental Health.

Posted on by Karen-designer

A Little Bit About Me ….

Amidst life’s trials and tribulations, including living with physical pain, medical conditions, and disabilities, I’ve encountered my fair share of mental health challenges. The loss of loved ones and friends has plunged me into the depths of grief, where functioning becomes a facade, and painting on a smile is the norm, even when everything inside feels shattered. We constantly say we are ok or fine, but inside we are screaming or crying for help, but won’t ask for it.

The stigma that surrounds mental health often leaves us feeling isolated, ashamed, and reluctant to admit when we’re not okay. We suffer in silence, avoiding intrusive questions and fearing rejection from those who don’t understand. Simple little things like being ignored, always feeling left out or being used can send us into a spiral of self doubt & destruction. So please check in on friends that maybe are quiet, usually happy, maybe overly loud or just absent as you don’t know what’s going on for them.

But amidst this darkness, knitting has been my lifeline, pulling me back from the brink time and time again. To curl up on the couch, with either a cheesy movie or music on, knitting in my hand with my little dog curled in beside me. Life just seems better and lets me try to sort out what is going on in my head or just forget it all for a little while.


What Knitting And Crochet Can Do To Help …

With this being Mental Health Awareness week, it’s vital to shed light on the myriad activities that contribute to our mental well-being. While traditional forms of therapy are indispensable, the healing power of creative outlets like knitting and crochet should not be underestimated.

  1. Mindfulness in Motion: The act of knitting or crocheting demands a level of concentration that anchors the mind in the present moment. The repetitive motions serve as a form of meditation, easing stress and anxiety.
  1. Sense of Accomplishment: Crafting something tangible with one’s own hands instills a profound sense of achievement and resilience. Each completed project serves as a testament to one’s abilities, bolstering self-esteem and confidence.
  1. Community Connection: Knitting and crochet foster a sense of community and belonging. Engaging with like-minded individuals in Knit N Natters either in person or online, taking classes provides not only an opportunity to learn new skills but also a support network to combat feelings of isolation.
  1. Stress Relief: The rhythmic nature of knitting and crochet acts as a form of therapy, releasing tension from the body and mind, promoting relaxation and tranquility.
  1. Creative Expression: The endless possibilities of colours, textures, and patterns offer a canvas for artistic expression. Whether following a pattern or improvising designs, the creative process sparks joy and ignites the imagination.
  1. Cognitive Stimulation: Engaging in intricate patterns and techniques challenges the brain, enhancing cognitive function and mental agility.

In a world where mental health struggles are increasingly prevalent, it’s crucial to embrace holistic approaches to well-being. Knitting and crochet provide not just a creative outlet, but a lifeline for those navigating the complexities of mental health. As we observe Mental Health Week, let’s champion the therapeutic power of crafting and weave a tapestry of healing and hope for all.

Reach out to friends and family if you need help, please don’t suffer alone. Please share in the comments below what helps you in coping with the struggles of mental health.