Photo via TOOSHAAYA on Etsy
Knitting may just be one of the most beautiful forms of textile art. It is, in a sense, primitive yet luxurious. A knitted garment is functional yet beautiful in a timeless way. Knitting as a hobby is also becoming more and more trendy, with celebrities such as Sarah Jessica Parker, The Duchess of Cambridge - Kate Middleton, Katherine Heigl, Julia Roberts, and even Russell Crowe happily clicking their needles. Its growing popularity has led to the introduction of some seriously innovative designers who are completely revamping the way we all look at knitwear. From a Berlin-based designer who makes a statement with every neon garment she creates, to a sweet mom in Maryland who knits a line of cozy-chic pieces for adults and children, here are the five designers you need to know. They are changing the knitwear game one stitch at a time.
Photos via The Knit Kid on Etsy
Loud, bright, and boisterous, Sabrina Weight's showstopping collection of knitwear is not for the faint of heart. This Berlin-based designer created her line after completing a Bachelors degree in Fashion Design. Born of a passion for knitted textiles, Sabrina's contemporary collection became a quick hit with people who loved her quirky aesthetic and appreciation for look-at-me neon hues. The best part? Everything is made by hand out of luxurious materials such as alpaca, cashmere, merino wool, and silk. Aptly named, The Knit Kid channels Sabrina's inner child and is unapologetically playful, paying no attention to traditions or rules. These aren't your granny's knits.
Facebook - @theknitkid
Instagram - @theknitkid
Website - www.the-knit-kid.de
Photos via Kordal Knitwear
This Brooklyn designer is the epitome of casual-cool. Her knits manage to walk the line between contemporary and nostalgic on a regular basis, and 80% of her designs are made locally in New York. She began her career with a bang, working for major designers such as Trovata, J.Crew, and Doori right after she graduated from the University of Cincinnati DAAP in 2009. Mandy Kordal truly does create clothing with a conscious, and everything is made ethically and sustainably with as little waste as possible. Look to this designer for lightweight and chunky knits, loose, comfortable silhouettes, and a warm, earthy colour palette.
Facebook - @kordalknitwear
Instagram - @kordalknitwear
Pinterest - @kordal
Tumblr - www.kordal.tumblr.com
Website - www.kordalknitwear.com
Photos via TOOSHAAYA on Etsy
Tom and Tzameret Moatty of TOOSHAAYA
This line of airy, minimalist knits is the passion project of mother and daughter duo, Tzamaret and Tom Moatty. Tom (who graduated from the Shenkar College of Design) and her mother Tzamaret create beautiful knitted clothing out of buttery soft, natural materials such as bamboo, cotton, linen, soy, and wool and draw inspiration from the colours, textures and shapes that are found in nature. Everything from this Tel Aviv-based brand is made instinctively and has a handmade touch that makes every piece feel unique. These breezy knits could be worn all year long and are breathable enough to be worn in the summer.
Facebook - @TOOSHAAYA
Instagram - @TOOSHAAYA
Pinterest - @TOOSHAAYA
Website - www.tooshaaya.com
Photos via Andy VeEirn on Etsy
Proving that knitted garments should not just be reserved for the winter, Yael Sharaby is the creative mind behind the Israel-based brand Andy VeEirn. The designer graduated from the Shenkar College of Design, obtaining a degree in Textile Design. Through her education, she learned the art of knitting and garment construction. Yael's patterns are all original and she designs and creates all of them herself. Her simple, breezy designs celebrate minimalism and geometric shapes using a subdued palette of pale blue, dusty rose, and warm neutrals. Every item is meant to become a staple in one's wardrobe and is constructed out of natural yarns such as viscose, cotton, and linen.
Facebook - @AndyVeEirn
Instagram - @andyveeirn
Pinterest - @andyveeirn
Website - www.andyveeirn.com
Photos via Peony Knits and Peony Blossoms on Etsy
Josie Gaido of Peony Knits and Peony Blossoms
Josie Gaido lives and works in Maryland and is responsible for creating some of the coziest, most adorable scarves and accessories for adults and children that we have ever seen. A new mom and avid knitter, Josie launched her line on Etsy in 2012 after her youngest brother passed away and her knitting brought her comfort and solace (like many of us makers know, creating is healing and can bring light into our lives even on the darkest of days). Unlike many designers who learned their trade from a formal background in textile design, Josie learned to knit from her mom and every piece she creates as that loving, handmade quality that can't be found within a corporate brand. Her knits have a classic aesthetic that feels timeless yet personal. Her other line, Peony Blossoms, is filled with accessories, hats, and blankets for little ones that are too sweet for words. Her Etsy boutique is a must-see for high-quality, handmade pieces that will keep you warm in style.
Facebook - @peonyknits
Twitter - @PeonyKnitsEtsy
Instagram - @peonyknits
Shop Our Favorite Knitting Books
With a dozen different patterns in this new book from Annie’s, there is something for every style and preference. From a delightful Gnome Whimsy to a chic Angelique, there is a special beanie for that special little one in your life. With easy to intermediate skill levels, you can foray into some more complicated knitting techniques such as cables or lace while still on a smaller scale. These projects are portable and perfect for traveling! The book features many techniques, including cables, lace, stranded colourwork, applique and more!
Top knit designer Melissa Leapman has created 12 terrific sweaters (in sizes small to X-large) to keep your needles flying all year long. Melissa has perfected the art of shaping by using design techniques such as set-in sleeves and a variety of necklines. This attention to detail will enhance the professionalism of your knitting.
3. I Can Knit: 10 Fun Projects - Easy Step by Step Instructions
I Can Knit is geared toward pre-teens and is set to follow the natural learning progression with short lessons and quick results. After just a few pages, you have enough skills to begin making and finishing simple projects. It also teaches knitting techniques for both left and right-handed knitters. This book includes instructions for 10 projects.
4. More Than A Dozen Hats & Beanies: 15 Hip Projects - Hats to Knit For Those You Love
This must-have book by Carri Hammett will appeal to knitters of all skill levels. The easy to follow tutorials will help you breeze through the steps of circular knitting in no time. These 15 fun to knit and fun to wear hats will make it hard to decide where to begin. This book will also appeal to the more experienced knitter looking for new projects and ideas.
5. How To Knit Socks - Three Methods Made Easy
This book has seven projects with step-by-step instructions and photo illustrations for not one, but three different methods for knitting socks. The basic designs are given in three sizes for children, women and men and are made with a popular self-striping yarn. Includes seven different sock designs.
Are there any knitwear designers you love that you think we should be talking about? Do you have any thoughts, questions or feedback? We would love to hear from you! Chat with us in the comment section or send us a message at sales@njeffersonltd.com.
