Summer, where have you gone?? It's back to school for everyone and even though we still have our fingers crossed for the sun to stick around we know that fall is on our doorstep. We will soon find ourselves watching the changing leaves and grabbing our favorite sweater. Fortunately for us the beginning of September means Pop Up Ave is only two weeks away and that Kneedles & Leaves will have the perfect companion beanie for your favorite sweater.
Kristin is the chief knitter behind the York-based company Kneedles & Leaves. Each piece is designed and handmade by Kristin. Her shop will be the perfect place to get ready for another chilly season in Happy Valley. The product photos will also be just the trick to get you mentally prepared and reaching for a hot mug of apple cider.
// When did you start knitting?
I started knitting while in college. It all began as a hands-on creative outlet to relieve stress.
// What makes your knitted pieces special?
Each item style is original and created by yours truly. When creating something new for the shop it undergoes a detailed process of knitting, then unraveling, and knitting again (sometimes more unraveling and more knitting is involved) until it's just perfect!
// Where does the inspiration for your business come from?
Much of my inspiration comes from my family and the outdoors - specifically trees. My father is a landscaper by profession. Growing up, I spent a lot of time outdoors around various trees. I came to find their unique characteristics and steady roots to be one of the most inspiring and reassuring sights in life. Each item in my shop is named after a tree variety and my shop name was created as a way of combining my love of knitting with my love of the outdoors. Plus, I really enjoy word play i.e. knitting needles and tree needles!
// How did friends and family react to you starting your business?
My family and friends were very excited and completely supportive of the process. Without their encouragement I don't know if I would have ever worked up the nerve to put my work out there.
// If you had to make only one type of product for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Anything with cables! Cabling is when you cross stitches to create twists and braids in your work. It's definitely an intricate and time consuming process, but the results are always so beautiful and unique.
We can't believe that Pop Up Ave is just eight short days away! Come on out to see more of Kristin's work and try her pieces on for size. You can also find her around the web at the following places:
www.etsy.com/shop/kneedlesandleaves