Trish's first pattern with The Unique Sheep is the Carrefours Scarf. This pattern uses a Gradiance Sock Set, a unique but easy to master stitch pattern and turns everything sideways for a uniquely constructed scarf that is as fun to knit as it is to wear!Here is the interview with Trish:
Part 1:
When did you learn now to knit/who taught you?
I learnt to knit as a child (age 7 or 8), I'm not sure if it was my Mum or my Gran who started teaching me, but it was definitely my Mum who taught me increases and decreases, cables, and basic color work -all in the guise of making clothes for my dolls. I'm pretty sure she made the patterns up herself as well.
When and how did you get into knitwear designing?
I guess I started designing a few years ago when, despite the billions of patterns on Rav, I still couldn't find a pattern exactly as I wanted. So I started modifying things -using a different lace or cable pattern on a glove for example. I didn't really consider it designing, just modifying. Then I fell in love with The Unique Sheep's Gradiance colorways. I naturally lean towards symmetry, so was looking for scarf patterns that were knit lengthwise, but couldn't find one I liked. So I ended up knitting the Carrefours scarf. I took it along with me to The Unique Sheep's Retreat in 2010 and ended up promising to write up the pattern for some of the lovely ladies that I met there, and was also encouraged by Laura to write it up as a pattern to sell.
What is your favorite fiber/weight yarn to work with?
I do believe all fibers and yarn-weights have their uses. As I enjoy knitting lace I tend to use mostly lace and fingering weight. For lace I prefer wool and wool blends (such as silk, tencel) as the "memory" of wool means that lace keeps the shape you blocked it to for longer. For its irresistible tactile qualities I have a couple of skeins of silk/camel blend, but I haven't knit with it yet.
What are you designing now?
I have been working on a lacy scarf/small shawl pattern which is made using a novel construction method. On my needles is a sweater I am designing purely for myself which was inspired by the yarn I am using.
Part 2:
1. What is your favorite word?
tintintabulation. I remember it since seeing it as a child when I was reading the dictionary to expand my vocabulary, but I have rarely managed to use it in conversation.
2. What is your least favorite word?
fantastic. I had a boss who used it constantly, and after a while I couldn't help but doubt his sincerity. So when I hear the word "fantastic" said in a particular way that reminds me of him it brings out my inner cynic.
3. What turns you on?
a warm summers breeze; the floral perfume of wattle in bloom; the taste of sun-warmed tomatoes eaten straight from the vine; the combination of good food/wine and good company
4. What turns you off?
arrogance or inconsiderate behavior
5. What sound do you love?
The caroling of Australian Magpies. You can hear what they sound like here
6. What sound do you hate?
anything that is painfully loud
7. What is your favorite curse word?
"bloody hell", although it a more a phrase than a single word
8. What profession other than yours would you like to attempt?
Botanical Artist. It would fulfill my inner scientist's need for accuracy while still nurturing my creative side's love of color and flowing forms.
9. What profession would you not like to do?
Statistician. For my day job I work as a Research Scientist (Biologist). Recently I have been analyzing a data from a very large experiment, and am sick of the sight of spread sheets, ANOVA reports etc.
10. If heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the pearly gates?
G'day Trish! Nice to finally meet you. Continue straight on through the gates and take the path up and over the bridge. At the fork in the road turn left. On the right you will see a dirt track that leads into the bush. Continue along the track till it hits a small stream, cross it. You will then be in a field of wild flowers where your loved ones are waiting to greet you.
Patti's first pattern with The Unique Sheep is the Lady Godiva Sock Pattern. This elegant sock pattern uses one Gradiance Sock Set and features delicate cables on a reverse stockinette background for an eye catching result.
Enjoy Patti's interview below:
Part 1:
When did you learn now to knit/who taught you?
I learned to knit when I was eight years old from my mom. She kept telling me I was too young to learn, but I was persistent and eventually she relented and taught me. I have been going to her for knitting advice and help ever since.
When and how did you get into knitwear designing?
I started designing when I had an idea for a sweater that I thought would look really great. I really wanted to see it in real life, so I designed and knit it. It is my Hannah Sweater design, which you can still get on Ravelry.
What is your favorite fiber/weight yarn to work with?
Of course it depends on the project, but I definitely use fingering weight yarn the most. It is so versatile, great for socks, shawls, hats, mitts, sweaters, anything really. I also love to wear things made with lightweight yarn, you don't overheat.
What are you designing now?
I always have a bunch of ideas kicking around my head. I sort of let them all simmer in the back of my mind until they are fully developed. Right now I have ideas for a tank top, a sweater out of sport weight yarn, and a collection of cabled knits where you can interchange the cable on each of the projects. Its sometimes hard to tell which ideas will need to stew longest, and some of them never make it past the back burner phase.
Part 2:
1. What is your favorite word?
Tough to pick just one, but I guess I could go with dragon. I am never disappointed when I am reading a book and that word comes up.
2. What is your least favorite word?
No. I never like hearing that one, and when I do I usually try to get around it.
3. What turns you on?
Creativity and originality.
4. What turns you off?
Anything boring.
5. What sound do you love?
The ocean.
6. What sound do you hate?
My alarm clock.
7. What is your favorite curse word?
frak
8. What profession other than yours would you like to attempt?
Astronaut
9. What profession would you not like to do?
Anything with too much stress, I like to be calm and relaxed. I can usually handle anything so long as nobody else is freaking out.
10. If heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the pearly gates?
Here is the knitting room.
