Featured Etsy Seller: Knitting Guru

Who are you? Where are your roots?
I'm a knitter and crocheter. I also do or have done many other fiber crafts -- weaving, tatting, sewing, quilting, beading, and so forth. I'm also an avid reader and gardener. I'm a native New Yorker and have lived in this wonderful city for my whole life. There's no better physical or creative exercise than walking the streets of NYC.


What were you like in High School?
I went to a special high school for gifted girls. I had to keep my interest in knitting and sewing more or less a secret because it was looked down on as not intellectual enough! I made all of my clothes in high school and was really happy to be voted "Best Dressed"!

What would you consider your muse?
I would say my muse is arachne, the spider, who carefully weaves wonderful webs.


What is your favorite medium, and why?
My favorite medium is definitely yarn and most especially wool. Although I do knit and crochet with cotton, silk, rayon, mohair, and blended fibers, there's nothing in the world as beautiful as wool.

Tell me about your artwork, what kind of style are you?
I would say my style is classic with flair, with bling, with something extra and unexpected. I love lots of bright colors and varied textures. My specialty is combining knitting and crochet together. I use them interchangeably depending on the effect I'm looking for. I also tend to use crocheted lace as a trim as well as appliqued crocheted motifs and flowers.

Who do you think your top market is?
My market is women who love to look wonderful. I always consider how a garment will flatter the wearer when I'm designing. I try to make smaller items so that those without the funds for my larger pieces can still get pleasure from wearing my garments and accessories.

Do you listen to music while you create? If so, which, and who is your favorite? I do sometimes listen to music while I create my knitwear. Bach and Beethoven are my favorite composers, but I enjoy most classical music. I was a music major when I began college and play the piano.

Other than creating art - what is your favorite hobby? My hobbies are reading, gardening, going to performances in NYC (theater, concerts, opera, ballet), going to museums and galleries, walking, and watching old movies from the 1930's to the 1950's.

What do you believe is essential for an etsy seller?
I think on Etsy you need to consider that you aren't face to face with your customers and they can't actually handle what you have made. With things created from fiber and meant to be worn, that presents a problem. It's important to photograph things as clearly as possible and to write detailed descriptions. Communication with customers is critical. They need to hear from you and feel that you are accessible if they have questions or concerns. And of course, the most important essential for an Etsy seller is to make excellent products that are worth buying and that are a credit to Etsy and all of its sellers.


Thanks for taking the time to read the article, check out Knitting Guru's shop for some awesome knitted items!