Thank you SO much for your discussion on size-inclusivity and THANK YOU for saying out loud that grading for larger sizes isn't hard and anyone worth their salt as a designer should be grading to size-inclusive standards!!!!! ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤ I'm SO sick of big-name designers saying grading is too hard or they can't find plus size testers. Look in the mirror and honestly ask yourself: are you doing enough to make your designs size-inclusive? Are you offering comfortable testing deadlines? Do you show off your designs on larger bodies? And OMG I could rage every time I see a skinny designer sharing a design that goes up to 5XL or 6XL, but that top size is 42" bust before ease! I appreciate the heck out of you Rebecca for creating and sharing BEAUTIFUL size-inclusive designs! 😘
I love listening to all of the insights in pattern designing. As a large size person, yes, it is frustrating to find the "perfect" sweater, only to discover that my size is not included. I feel that if I want to help ensure more designers are designing larger sizes, I need to be part of the process by applying to test patterns when I can. I am on my second test for Rebecca (Lauder Cardigan) and will continue to apply to test for her designs as well as for other creators who design for a wide variety of body sizes.
You said something hugely relatable and true. That when your treasured hobby becomes your job you absolutely do start daydreaming about quitting to so something else. I’ve been lucky enough have mostly worked jobs I’ve been passionate about and inevitably I’ll be daydreaming about quitting that to read literary fiction all day.
I was talking about this with my partner at dinner and I also realised that as soon as I quit my job and knit full time, the pressure to knit becomes so much more extreme and it stops being the treasured hobby! But yes, when work is hard I want to just sit and read romance trash novels and knit stockinette projects for 10 hours a day
This is amazing. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and experiences; it was really generous of you to go into detail when answering the questions. I love it when people talk about behind the scenes stuff! If you have time, I hope you'll make more videos like this.
I definitely plan to. I'm currently filming an almost-weekly check-in video of a design from start to finish! It might end up being a huge video but should be fun to see the whole process.
honestly thank you so much for being so passionate about size inclusivity; i've test knit many of your patterns and as a busty gal it can be hard to find patterns that are flattering or accommodating but i never have that worry with your designs. it makes such a difference to have finished objects that not only fit, but look amazing and are fun to make. (also editing after getting notes is the absolute worst; whenever i got notes on my writing in college i'd procrastinate so hard on reading it before going to do anything that it wouldn't get done until it absolutely had to. totally get why it takes so long to do lol.)
Gday Rebecca. Don’t feel bad or guilty about not choosing people for test knits. I just got declined for your test knit for the Tydes test knit, but what I did appreciate was that I got a response from you. Some designers you just don’t hear from at all when you apply. When I heard how many test applications you get I wasn’t going to apply to test for you because I didn’t think I had a chance. But then I heard you mention on one of your podcasts that you would consider how many times people apply. So I decided to apply. I didn’t expect to be chosen, but I can’t say I wasn’t just a little disappointed- but I know there’ll be more opportunities to come. Love your work 😊
Well done Rebecca! Size inclusivity is important and I give you credit for your stance on the issue. You have clearly got a wonderful skill set to successfully do both a full time career and this so successful side hustle.
This was such a an interesting video. For most patterns I am one of the largest sizes and there are several reasons I don't test knit. Besides the personal reasons (demanding job, mental health, etc.) the main reason I don't sign up for test knits is that I want to see a pattern on larger bodies before I commit the time and money to it. This goes off of the idea that it takes longer to knit a larger garment. If I'm going to spend that much time knitting something, I like to know it's going to look good on my body and that's hard to know with a test knit.
That’s right. Can’t tell you how many times I’ve looked at Ravelry projects and filtered for the larger sizes. I also get inspiration for suitable designs from some podcasters who wear large sizes and showcase their makes in the podcast.
I personally love that you talk about size inclusivity - as a larger knitter, I really appreciate the discourse around it l, and designers and TH-camrs like yourself who are talking about this from a positive perspective, and challenging the idea that it doesn’t really matter because for a lot of us it absolutely does. So a huge thank you.
You’re a natural at this! I imagine your sewist background does help a lot. Makes sense why people seem so happy with your sizes and designs. Interesting episode! 🎉
I've enjoyed all your videos. You are very charismatic and relatable. I loved the question about your loves and dislikes. As a fairly regular tester i found it extremely interesting to hear how you choose your testers. I was also surprised that you didnt mention running into someone you dont know wearing one of your designs in the "wild" as a 'love'. I would imagine that would be a total thrill.
Loved this! I've been watching your podcast from the beginning and I'm constantly surprised and inspired by how different each design is from the last. Thanks for doing this!
So interesting! Thank you so much . I’m knitting an Alder sweater for my daughter right now, and it is such a fun and beautifully written pattern. I hope you keep designing for a long time to come!
I thought this was great, Rebecca, thank you. Especially your comments on test knitters and size inclusivity. I love how thoughtful and kind you are. And that green on you is gorgeous. I have no interest in designing, but I modify patterns all the time and make lots of adaptations to them...I have always had trouble following instructions and rules 🙃 I hope that those who are indeed interested in designing take some inspiration from your TED talk (ha!) because there were some gems in it.
I’ve been watching and enjoying your podcasts for a while now, but I really enjoyed this episode and wanted to comment to say so. I appreciate you taking the time to answer these questions and give your opinions, especially on the size inclusivity debate. I love the way you explained the grading and using patterns like past papers, I don’t think I’d ever do this but what a clever idea!
The discussion on size inclusivity was wonderful. One of the designers I recently applied to test knit for had an option where she had a discount code for the larger size test knitters and had a test knit period close to 13 weeks. I am sure that helps in managing costs and time :)
That was fun :) And Interesting . It’s such a shame you get stressed about choosing test knitters. You shouldn’t , if anyone is remotely interested in all your patterns they would by now be aware of how many applicants you get . I wish I knew someone large that wears sweaters I could knit for. Sadly because I live in Brisbane it’s rarely cold enough for larger people I do know to wear them or even knitted tops . We travel a fair bit and I’m outdoors a lot with my horses so I do get the use out of sweaters , hence I keep knitting :). But I’m just average 😂
Thank you so much Rebecca, for voicing the importance to use size inclusivity and for supporting the importance of grading the larger sizes. You are very eloquent and your comments make a difference especially when it comes from an intelligent and knowledgeable person like you. 👏💖
I thought that was very informative! I’m happy for you that you are able to balance your professional life and creative life and personal life!! Keep doing what makes you feel joy, that’s what this life is for. ❤
Thank you for sharing! Great info. Side note, you could probably wear shades of green everyday. It's definitely your color. Lovely. As a side note, I'd be happy to test knit sizes that don't get enough applicants and either end of the size spectrum. I don't feel that the finished garment needs to fit me. I have enough friends and family of all sizes that the finished item would find a home, and they would be happy to try things on as I go. I'm primarily a process knitter and like the puzzle aspect of test knitting. Another consideration to whether to design full time is that you really physically can't sustain knitting all the extra hours that you would gain by not having another full time job. I know it sounds great to be able to knit all the time, and yes, that's great, but it also comes with the risk of repetitive strain injuries. I know this from experience. I knit & crochet a lot, but my job involves drawing on & off the computer and I currently recovering from elbow surgery to repair a torn tendon. I know that a lot of people can do whatever they want for as long as they want without any issues. However, it can also sneak up on you. My point is that a variety of activities is a good thing. Take care.
Loved your candor and honesty here as always. I turned my hobby/passion into a full time job. It lasted 5 years for me. I learned so much and have zero regrets, but in the winding up of the business i lost my passion too. I think your decision to stick with your job that you enjoy while accomplishing so much in this space shows an incredible amount of maturity and in the end it actually gives you so much flexibility to do (or not do) what you feel drawn to in the knitting world.
thanks for this wonderful video, rebecca! just another perspective on the designers who are only a few centimeters off getting snark/hate: i think kindness and calling people in is really important AND i've heard from a lot of knitters that it is especially frustrating when a pattern is close to being fully inclusive but doesn't because it feels like they could have made the push to go all the way to inclusive but chose not to. i don't see it as bashing these designers or clumping them in with the more egregious standouts (i think there are much bigger culprits, as you rightly point out!), but rather these are designers that are close and being curious about what keeps them from going all the way and hopefully, as i said, calling them in to increase their range by those few inches. hope this makes sense, and thank you again for your perspective and discussion of the topic! i appreciate it a lot and have learned so much from you!
I loved your views on size inclusive, well done I knit larger sizes and am currently doing my first ever test knit. Yes it is more yarn and does take more time. Thank you for seeing how it effects all. Keep up the great pattern designing🙂
Hi Rebecca, I loved this podcast! Thanks for running through design of knitting for us. Eye opening in the sense of process. Two divisions, the knitting and the grading processes. Fascinating thanks and expanding my way of viewing knitting patterns which I have just restarted 1 yr ago on retiring - learnt as a child w only say 5 FO ever, now fully INTO IT! and never going back hahaha. Love your pattern designs, and will be knitting your Rheu sweater plain as modelled by Vanissia, as your fit is beautiful 🙏🥰
Hi Rebecca. I really love your designs and your TH-cam channel. I'm one of those folks who have applied several times to test knit and not been picked, so I appreciate you talking about that. I met you briefly at Wool & Folk and I can guarantee I won't every ghost you if I am a test knitter. In fact, there is one designer I test knit for who ghosted the test knitters and then decided at the last moment she wasn't releasing the pattern at that time as planned. As a test knitter I work hard to make sure I meet deadlines and provide feedback. Ok, that's my little commercial for picking me in the future!! (Haha). Wishing you all the best!!😄
This was really interesting, thank you for sharing. I completely agree with your opinions on size inclusively- it's really important for a LOT of people!
I really enjoyed this episode, you managed to convey lots of information in an interesting and engaging way. Don’t feel bad for not choosing everyone for your test knits. We all know you get lots of applications and you can’t take everybody. I always appreciate that you send a message to unsuccessful applicants. Great talk on size inclusivity. Enjoy having your cake and eating it!!
Wow. That was super interesting. All of it. I've heard about size inclusiveness but never really got it until hearing your passion for it and why. So thank you for that.
Rebecca. Thank you for alll you do for the knitting world out here. While I will never design and sell or give away patterns, your answers and comments were really interesting. Many of us modify patterns to fit our bodies. (Who besides Gray's Anatomy fits all the measurements for a given size?). I've watched every episode and have appreciated your use of various yarns, both in fiber content and cost. Please, keep blogging over there. Your life is filled to overflowing, and the day will come when you have to start cutting some activities out. Hopefully it wont be a continuation of your knitting journey. You ALWAYS light up my day with you enthusiasm, knowledge and practical approach to knitting. And unlike somepodcasters, you appeal to all age groups, not just inclusive sizes.
What a great explanation of behind the scenes. I really like this format as well. I am always interested in how designers go about creating and all of the ins and outs of all designs. Thanks so much for your thoughtful insight.
Thank you! I'm SO enjoy sharing it but working out how to do that without just droning on about sizing charts and swatches is hard. This was a fun way to do it!
WONDERFUL, Rebecca! I loved this (and your vlog and your podcast, of course). You are so refreshing, smart and fun and full of positive energy. You are very interesting to listen to. Mix it up, girl. Keep doing questions, vlogs and your podcast. This was really fun. Also, totally different content-stuff we listeners dont ever get to hear. I love your patterns too. I’m a fan can you tell? Thanks for your time to share your thoughts.
I definitely love this style of content from you! Lots of these topics are questions I had myself so it’s great to get your perspective. I’ve considered learning to write patterns (even just for myself to be able to replicate some of those random garments I threw together on a whim, lol) and this helped me learn about what skills I will need to fine tune before jumping in!
I love your view on size-inclusivity, especially the take on the designers. One of the biggest polish designer is grading up to 2XL and that's done rarely, her test knits last only 4 weeks for all sizes AND she is requiring specific yarn without yarn support (though she recently give testers 10% off for one particular shop), but still it's not a DROPS but more Sandnes Garn, so nothing cheap. I'm just baffled that she stands as a one of the greatest desingers in Poland and even receives awards from president of my city, while being so size-exclusive. We all could use more designers like you Rebecca!
Very interesting episode. I want to say that I am sure the testers understand that there will be more applicants than available openings. You should never feel guilty about that process. I have to say that I really love that color on you.
I really enjoyed this episode, you're so warm & welcoming and I liked the Q&A format too! I found some of your responses really helpful and encouraging as a very new knitwear designer (only baby knits so far but hopefully more sizes in the future!) Thank you also for sharing about rhe 'dream' of quitting everything and knitting fulltime. I have a 2yo and although I don't do paid work full-time, my time is very full! So grabbing whatever time I can to knit and design is already a joyful treat haha
Just recently came across your channel & love your content & designs! (I’m a new subscriber!) One thing I always wondered about designing knitting patterns was about copyrighting or not wanting to steal someone else’s patterns. For example, I’m a big sock knitter & love a toe up construction… But if I use Judy’s Magic cast on & increase to 64 stitches (which is fairly standard) is that taking someone else’s idea even if I add a texture or a color work motif? Same as a hat - if I cast on an 80 stitch brim & then use a standard decrease at the crown - is that too common to call my own pattern even if I add my own design in the body of the hat? I guess there is more play in garment knitting but I just think to myself - a raglan is a raglan… even if I add something different in it, is that copying someone else’s design? Would love to hear your thoughts especially as you’ve been published in magazines so your patterns must have been scrutinized before you could release / print them… Thanks for your advice - this has always stopped me from trying to design something because I just want to make sure I don’t do anything wrong… -Erica 🇺🇸
I loved this video, ( I've just had 10 days in NZ, I do hope you"re heading down to the south island.....It's stunning down there, that said, given you live in Scotland, maybe you wont find the South Is as "activating" as I do. )Anyhoo, I was so happy to come back to TWO videos waiting for me from you!! You're so incredibly generous, thank you for sharing your expertise and insights around design. The colour of that non stick, stick season jumper you're wearing looks so gorgeous on you!! Thank you again for this video, I don't think you realise how amazingly inspirational you are :)
Love listening to you Rebecca! I could sit and knit with you all day. You are so straightforward and I love that quality in a person 💕 you are also extemely talented AND Scottish 😁 yay ! You are on my list of designers for patterns this year.. pls keep going 🏴 forevah
Hi Rebecca, thank you so much for sharing your thoughts on size inclusive patterns. In a future video would you please consider recommending some other pattern designers who share similar values/
This was very interesting. Thank you. I’ve applied to test for you a few times. I’ve never been selected but I’ve never taken offence. I don’t think or at least I hope people understand. I have always just assumed it is due to number of applicants, size I chose. It may or may not happen and that’s ok. I will still get to knit it once the pattern is released. I appreciate that you don’t want people to feel bad but I think we are all just so excited by your new patterns we just want to get our hands on it. 🤣🤣
I love the conversation!! For some perspective on why it can be harder to find testers in larger sizes: besides many tests not having a big enough window of time to complete a larger size knit, cost can be prohibitive as well! I’m a larger size and shy away from test knits because it takes ALOT of yarn for me to knit a sweater, so I have to be very selective with what projects I’m going to knit in a year simply so that I can afford it. I 1000000% understand that not every pattern writer can partner with a yarn company to provide yarn support, but I feel like I would be more likely to jump on a test with yarn support because I wouldn’t be putting out so much money on top of time knitting the pattern. I WISH I could participate in more test knits, but the reality is that even just one sweater is SO expensive
This was super interesting and very enjoyable- thanks for the time you take to share your opinions and experiences. Your passion and conscientiousness are admirable and also inspiring, and your patterns are so lovely and wearable. You are a gift to the knitting community❤
Well, this was an enjoyable and interesting episode for me, and what I want to know is how many hours are in your days as I don’t know how you fit everything in!
Hi Rebecca! I always love your designs and videos….thank you for the depth of sharing on the topic of being a knitwear designer. Loved it all. You rock. 🩷
Love this video and the other new things you’ve been getting into on your channel! Thank you for being so open about your design process and everything that goes into it! This was so fascinating!
Thank you so much for your discussion. I just want to be able to design for myself. I have some ready to wear sweaters that I love that I want to duplicate as they are getting old and worn, but I’ve always felt to intimidated to try. ❤
That was really interesting, thank you so much for explaining. I am not the best with math and so I shy away from trying to do calculations, but I know it’s important and will try harder. Also, thank you for being conscious of your speed and I had no trouble understanding the full podcast . I greatly appreciate it.❤
Hi Rebecca you re so talented I ve been knitting for sixty odd years wouldn’t know where to begin and seventy next month but young in heart Isn’t it freezing cold here in edinburgh just now we re looking forward to spring in Eyemouth at our holiday home for better weather hopefully Am knitting Amy’s poncho just now it’s lovely too
Brilliant answer to sizing patterns. I to get fed up of patterns not going up big enough. What shouldn't Large ladies and gentlemen wear lovely knits like their thinner friends and family. So good for you, keep doing what you are doing for us larger folk, we love you for it. Love your podcasts and since I found you I always watch when a new episode pops up. Thank you again, you are brill. Xx🧶🧶🧶
What a great honest video- I know it is not easy to put yourself out there but thank you. Lack of size inclusivity is a topic that really grinds my gears. Lately what really annoys me is the comeback of releasing a pattern with 5 sizes and pretending that 20 cm ease means one designer is inclusive -because the largest size is 160( yes but let’s take away the ease). Or the lack of size range/coherence ( a size 2XL in a pattern measuring the same than a size 10 in another one). But more than anything lately what really gets to me the 4/5 week test knit deadlines. I really can’t fathom why these type of practices keep happening when the feedback is loud and clear: testers need time, and the more you have to knit, the more time you need..and at some point I also think as consumers we do have a responsibility too of not participating/enabling such practices. Sometimes it might mean not applying to a test knit of someone with cool designs ( but I think if not all my friends could make it in all their sizes, then I don’t want it either).And I say this knowing I should have lead by example and might not have done it occasionally. But recently have started to take a look at my pattern library and really question who in here cares about size inclusivity? Thank you Rebecca,loved to hear your reflections, also learned a new term (from another DINK!😅)
Hi! New subscriber here and recently became obsessed with knitting now I understand how to read a pattern! Came across your podcast and love it! I’m visiting Edinburgh in June and wondered if you could recommend / do a video on Scottish yarn & lovely yarn shops to visit! I’m ready to shop! 🎉
Thank-you for this podast Rebecca, I found it all very interesting. I have a further question - you spoke about sewing as part of your foundation for knitwear design? - I've both sewn and knitted for a long time - often not both at the same time - but (probably because knitwear is both stretchy and I've mostly prefered oversized fit) I've mainly sweated the theory and practice of fit in a sewing context. In this iteration of my knitting career (I'm a very cyclical crafter) I've become more aware of fit issues in knitting but can mainly only conceptulise them in sewing terms. I'd be really interested to hear more of your take on how you apply sewing fit ideas to knitting adjustments. Only if you want to of course. I know this is potentially a big question.
There are SO many resources out there! But Sister mountain is a great place to start. And also just do it and see how it feels. It's way less scary once you get going.
Thanks for this video. I'm in the middle of two test knits and I've been wondering if I'm really doing this in a way that makes sense. It sounds like I have a similar approach. If only I had some of your testers. 👻👻
I am not a designer but I see things that I want to recreate all the time. For me it's bags. Currently I want to figure out a way to recreate the Japanese Rice bag in knit.
Great Q&A would like to hear how yarn plays in your designing? Yarn inclusive or specific. I recently spotted a pattern that offers kits……the cost was £120 for the yarn😮. Thank you
I wanted to start by thanking you for your videos( also your patterns), and this one in particular. I find very interesting the topic of size inclusivity and would love to know your take on what Kate Atherley said in this regard in an interview in Fiberchats, Episode: 258 (begins in minute 11:50, and the most interesting after 19:00), if you think it is worth including in a future video. What I understand from what Kate says is that proportions are not the same for different body sizes, so sizing is not as straightforward as one may think, and relies on a good data set. Also different styles or designs may not be as flattering for some sizes or shapes, so maybe size inclusivity might be reached by a wide enough offer of styles/designs/patterns, not just in every individual pattern (which may not be as succesful for the smaller and/or bigger sizes). I'm just trying to learn more about all this, and would really like to hear more, specially from someone who cares about this issue, like you. Thanks again!
Yes! Totally agree with this. Different ease across different bodies is super important. Not every size may have the same amount of positive ease over a certain area. It's a balance between giving everyone the exact same offering and letting them choose for themselves, and using fitting expertise to suggest what ease should be for a size. I'm not quite sure where I sit on that scale. I almost always just ignore recommended ease and knit whatever I want anyway.
LBHandknits (Albiona McLachlan) usually writes about her patterns in detail and different aspects of them in her blog as well as writing recommendations about choosing ease etc. in her pattern. I.ex. right now, she has a blog article about her ribbed designs and how the fabric behaves, how people of different sizes and with different proportions might choose to incorporate ease. I think, this would be the way to go. I really feel included by that approach, without ever using the topic of "flattering / unflattering".
@@shebear9251 Thanks for the tip! Also, i didn't think about the term flattering as a trigger or offensive (of course i didnt mean it like that), but you got me thinking (so, thanks for that one too). I feel like i ought to read my Bourdieu and then some more modern ones!
Hi Rebecca you are such a talented lady , and doing your full time job knitting and having a lovely life ,you go for it girl ,you brilliant with all your designs ,ect , love watching every podcast you have done often a few times ,also enjoy your weekend of rugby too 🤗🤗
Thank you SO much for your discussion on size-inclusivity and THANK YOU for saying out loud that grading for larger sizes isn't hard and anyone worth their salt as a designer should be grading to size-inclusive standards!!!!! ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤ I'm SO sick of big-name designers saying grading is too hard or they can't find plus size testers. Look in the mirror and honestly ask yourself: are you doing enough to make your designs size-inclusive? Are you offering comfortable testing deadlines? Do you show off your designs on larger bodies? And OMG I could rage every time I see a skinny designer sharing a design that goes up to 5XL or 6XL, but that top size is 42" bust before ease! I appreciate the heck out of you Rebecca for creating and sharing BEAUTIFUL size-inclusive designs! 😘
amen!
I love listening to all of the insights in pattern designing. As a large size person, yes, it is frustrating to find the "perfect" sweater, only to discover that my size is not included. I feel that if I want to help ensure more designers are designing larger sizes, I need to be part of the process by applying to test patterns when I can. I am on my second test for Rebecca (Lauder Cardigan) and will continue to apply to test for her designs as well as for other creators who design for a wide variety of body sizes.
Very interesting. Would love to have even half your energy, not to mention talent. Your humility is a nice bonus.
You said something hugely relatable and true. That when your treasured hobby becomes your job you absolutely do start daydreaming about quitting to so something else. I’ve been lucky enough have mostly worked jobs I’ve been passionate about and inevitably I’ll be daydreaming about quitting that to read literary fiction all day.
I was talking about this with my partner at dinner and I also realised that as soon as I quit my job and knit full time, the pressure to knit becomes so much more extreme and it stops being the treasured hobby!
But yes, when work is hard I want to just sit and read romance trash novels and knit stockinette projects for 10 hours a day
This is amazing. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and experiences; it was really generous of you to go into detail when answering the questions. I love it when people talk about behind the scenes stuff! If you have time, I hope you'll make more videos like this.
I definitely plan to. I'm currently filming an almost-weekly check-in video of a design from start to finish! It might end up being a huge video but should be fun to see the whole process.
honestly thank you so much for being so passionate about size inclusivity; i've test knit many of your patterns and as a busty gal it can be hard to find patterns that are flattering or accommodating but i never have that worry with your designs. it makes such a difference to have finished objects that not only fit, but look amazing and are fun to make.
(also editing after getting notes is the absolute worst; whenever i got notes on my writing in college i'd procrastinate so hard on reading it before going to do anything that it wouldn't get done until it absolutely had to. totally get why it takes so long to do lol.)
Gday Rebecca. Don’t feel bad or guilty about not choosing people for test knits. I just got declined for your test knit for the Tydes test knit, but what I did appreciate was that I got a response from you. Some designers you just don’t hear from at all when you apply. When I heard how many test applications you get I wasn’t going to apply to test for you because I didn’t think I had a chance. But then I heard you mention on one of your podcasts that you would consider how many times people apply. So I decided to apply. I didn’t expect to be chosen, but I can’t say I wasn’t just a little disappointed- but I know there’ll be more opportunities to come. Love your work 😊
Well done Rebecca! Size inclusivity is important and I give you credit for your stance on the issue. You have clearly got a wonderful skill set to successfully do both a full time career and this so successful side hustle.
This was such a an interesting video. For most patterns I am one of the largest sizes and there are several reasons I don't test knit. Besides the personal reasons (demanding job, mental health, etc.) the main reason I don't sign up for test knits is that I want to see a pattern on larger bodies before I commit the time and money to it. This goes off of the idea that it takes longer to knit a larger garment. If I'm going to spend that much time knitting something, I like to know it's going to look good on my body and that's hard to know with a test knit.
Totally understand this! It makes a lot of sense
That’s right. Can’t tell you how many times I’ve looked at Ravelry projects and filtered for the larger sizes. I also get inspiration for suitable designs from some podcasters who wear large sizes and showcase their makes in the podcast.
I personally love that you talk about size inclusivity - as a larger knitter, I really appreciate the discourse around it l, and designers and TH-camrs like yourself who are talking about this from a positive perspective, and challenging the idea that it doesn’t really matter because for a lot of us it absolutely does. So a huge thank you.
You’re a natural at this! I imagine your sewist background does help a lot. Makes sense why people seem so happy with your sizes and designs. Interesting episode! 🎉
I've enjoyed all your videos. You are very charismatic and relatable. I loved the question about your loves and dislikes. As a fairly regular tester i found it extremely interesting to hear how you choose your testers. I was also surprised that you didnt mention running into someone you dont know wearing one of your designs in the "wild" as a 'love'. I would imagine that would be a total thrill.
Your Tolsta pattern took me from sock knitter to garment knitter and I haven't looked back. Love this video and all your content. Thanks xx
Loved this! I've been watching your podcast from the beginning and I'm constantly surprised and inspired by how different each design is from the last. Thanks for doing this!
So interesting! Thank you so much . I’m knitting an Alder sweater for my daughter right now, and it is such a fun and beautifully written pattern. I hope you keep designing for a long time to come!
I absolutely love that green color on you! I know you are stretching your color comfort and just wanted to give you some positive feedback.😊
I think this is my most worn knit for the past 3 months. I LOVE it.
Love that! Very interesting. And I was wondering where the Kip/herringbone design was hiding! ;) Yay! looking forward to knitting that one.
I thought this was great, Rebecca, thank you. Especially your comments on test knitters and size inclusivity. I love how thoughtful and kind you are. And that green on you is gorgeous. I have no interest in designing, but I modify patterns all the time and make lots of adaptations to them...I have always had trouble following instructions and rules 🙃 I hope that those who are indeed interested in designing take some inspiration from your TED talk (ha!) because there were some gems in it.
I’ve been watching and enjoying your podcasts for a while now, but I really enjoyed this episode and wanted to comment to say so. I appreciate you taking the time to answer these questions and give your opinions, especially on the size inclusivity debate. I love the way you explained the grading and using patterns like past papers, I don’t think I’d ever do this but what a clever idea!
The discussion on size inclusivity was wonderful. One of the designers I recently applied to test knit for had an option where she had a discount code for the larger size test knitters and had a test knit period close to 13 weeks. I am sure that helps in managing costs and time :)
That was fun :) And Interesting . It’s such a shame you get stressed about choosing test knitters. You shouldn’t , if anyone is remotely interested in all your patterns they would by now be aware of how many applicants you get . I wish I knew someone large that wears sweaters I could knit for. Sadly because I live in Brisbane it’s rarely cold enough for larger people I do know to wear them or even knitted tops . We travel a fair bit and I’m outdoors a lot with my horses so I do get the use out of sweaters , hence I keep knitting :). But I’m just average 😂
Thank you so much Rebecca, for voicing the importance to use size inclusivity and for supporting the importance of grading the larger sizes. You are very eloquent and your comments make a difference especially when it comes from an intelligent and knowledgeable person like you. 👏💖
It was such a pleasure listening to you ❤❤Really beautiful ideas, well put thoughts, incredible talent and just a lovely human being 😘Thank you!
I thought that was very informative! I’m happy for you that you are able to balance your professional life and creative life and personal life!! Keep doing what makes you feel joy, that’s what this life is for. ❤
Thank you for sharing! Great info. Side note, you could probably wear shades of green everyday. It's definitely your color. Lovely. As a side note, I'd be happy to test knit sizes that don't get enough applicants and either end of the size spectrum. I don't feel that the finished garment needs to fit me. I have enough friends and family of all sizes that the finished item would find a home, and they would be happy to try things on as I go. I'm primarily a process knitter and like the puzzle aspect of test knitting.
Another consideration to whether to design full time is that you really physically can't sustain knitting all the extra hours that you would gain by not having another full time job. I know it sounds great to be able to knit all the time, and yes, that's great, but it also comes with the risk of repetitive strain injuries. I know this from experience. I knit & crochet a lot, but my job involves drawing on & off the computer and I currently recovering from elbow surgery to repair a torn tendon. I know that a lot of people can do whatever they want for as long as they want without any issues. However, it can also sneak up on you. My point is that a variety of activities is a good thing. Take care.
Loved your candor and honesty here as always. I turned my hobby/passion into a full time job. It lasted 5 years for me. I learned so much and have zero regrets, but in the winding up of the business i lost my passion too. I think your decision to stick with your job that you enjoy while accomplishing so much in this space shows an incredible amount of maturity and in the end it actually gives you so much flexibility to do (or not do) what you feel drawn to in the knitting world.
Thank you for being a size inclusive designer and for speaking about how important it is in knitting patterns. I very much appreciate it!
thanks for this wonderful video, rebecca! just another perspective on the designers who are only a few centimeters off getting snark/hate: i think kindness and calling people in is really important AND i've heard from a lot of knitters that it is especially frustrating when a pattern is close to being fully inclusive but doesn't because it feels like they could have made the push to go all the way to inclusive but chose not to. i don't see it as bashing these designers or clumping them in with the more egregious standouts (i think there are much bigger culprits, as you rightly point out!), but rather these are designers that are close and being curious about what keeps them from going all the way and hopefully, as i said, calling them in to increase their range by those few inches. hope this makes sense, and thank you again for your perspective and discussion of the topic! i appreciate it a lot and have learned so much from you!
I loved your views on size inclusive, well done I knit larger sizes and am currently doing my first ever test knit. Yes it is more yarn and does take more time. Thank you for seeing how it effects all. Keep up the great pattern designing🙂
Hi Rebecca, I loved this podcast! Thanks for running through design of knitting for us. Eye opening in the sense of process. Two divisions, the knitting and the grading processes. Fascinating thanks and expanding my way of viewing knitting patterns which I have just restarted 1 yr ago on retiring - learnt as a child w only say 5 FO ever, now fully INTO IT! and never going back hahaha. Love your pattern designs, and will be knitting your Rheu sweater plain as modelled by Vanissia, as your fit is beautiful 🙏🥰
Hi Rebecca. I really love your designs and your TH-cam channel. I'm one of those folks who have applied several times to test knit and not been picked, so I appreciate you talking about that. I met you briefly at Wool & Folk and I can guarantee I won't every ghost you if I am a test knitter. In fact, there is one designer I test knit for who ghosted the test knitters and then decided at the last moment she wasn't releasing the pattern at that time as planned. As a test knitter I work hard to make sure I meet deadlines and provide feedback. Ok, that's my little commercial for picking me in the future!! (Haha). Wishing you all the best!!😄
This was really interesting, thank you for sharing. I completely agree with your opinions on size inclusively- it's really important for a LOT of people!
I really enjoyed this episode, you managed to convey lots of information in an interesting and engaging way. Don’t feel bad for not choosing everyone for your test knits. We all know you get lots of applications and you can’t take everybody. I always appreciate that you send a message to unsuccessful applicants. Great talk on size inclusivity. Enjoy having your cake and eating it!!
Absolutely loved this podcast. I can’t stop admiring the sweater you are wearing. That green is GORGEOUS and looks fantastic on you.
Wow. That was super interesting. All of it. I've heard about size inclusiveness but never really got it until hearing your passion for it and why. So thank you for that.
Rebecca. Thank you for alll you do for the knitting world out here. While I will never design and sell or give away patterns, your answers and comments were really interesting. Many of us modify patterns to fit our bodies. (Who besides Gray's Anatomy fits all the measurements for a given size?). I've watched every episode and have appreciated your use of various yarns, both in fiber content and cost. Please, keep blogging over there. Your life is filled to overflowing, and the day will come when you have to start cutting some activities out. Hopefully it wont be a continuation of your knitting journey. You ALWAYS light up my day with you enthusiasm, knowledge and practical approach to knitting. And unlike somepodcasters, you appeal to all age groups, not just inclusive sizes.
What a great explanation of behind the scenes. I really like this format as well. I am always interested in how designers go about creating and all of the ins and outs of all designs. Thanks so much for your thoughtful insight.
Thank you! I'm SO enjoy sharing it but working out how to do that without just droning on about sizing charts and swatches is hard. This was a fun way to do it!
WONDERFUL, Rebecca! I loved this (and your vlog and your podcast, of course). You are so refreshing, smart and fun and full of positive energy. You are very interesting to listen to. Mix it up, girl. Keep doing questions, vlogs and your podcast. This was really fun. Also, totally different content-stuff we listeners dont ever get to hear. I love your patterns too. I’m a fan can you tell? Thanks for your time to share your thoughts.
I definitely love this style of content from you! Lots of these topics are questions I had myself so it’s great to get your perspective. I’ve considered learning to write patterns (even just for myself to be able to replicate some of those random garments I threw together on a whim, lol) and this helped me learn about what skills I will need to fine tune before jumping in!
I think just jumping in is the best way to do it!
Your own opinions about knitwear… YES ❤
I love your view on size-inclusivity, especially the take on the designers. One of the biggest polish designer is grading up to 2XL and that's done rarely, her test knits last only 4 weeks for all sizes AND she is requiring specific yarn without yarn support (though she recently give testers 10% off for one particular shop), but still it's not a DROPS but more Sandnes Garn, so nothing cheap. I'm just baffled that she stands as a one of the greatest desingers in Poland and even receives awards from president of my city, while being so size-exclusive. We all could use more designers like you Rebecca!
Very interesting episode. I want to say that I am sure the testers understand that there will be more applicants than available openings. You should never feel guilty about that process.
I have to say that I really love that color on you.
I thought the same about the green sweater looking amazing
I really enjoyed this episode, you're so warm & welcoming and I liked the Q&A format too! I found some of your responses really helpful and encouraging as a very new knitwear designer (only baby knits so far but hopefully more sizes in the future!) Thank you also for sharing about rhe 'dream' of quitting everything and knitting fulltime. I have a 2yo and although I don't do paid work full-time, my time is very full! So grabbing whatever time I can to knit and design is already a joyful treat haha
Just recently came across your channel & love your content & designs! (I’m a new subscriber!) One thing I always wondered about designing knitting patterns was about copyrighting or not wanting to steal someone else’s patterns. For example, I’m a big sock knitter & love a toe up construction… But if I use Judy’s Magic cast on & increase to 64 stitches (which is fairly standard) is that taking someone else’s idea even if I add a texture or a color work motif? Same as a hat - if I cast on an 80 stitch brim & then use a standard decrease at the crown - is that too common to call my own pattern even if I add my own design in the body of the hat? I guess there is more play in garment knitting but I just think to myself - a raglan is a raglan… even if I add something different in it, is that copying someone else’s design? Would love to hear your thoughts especially as you’ve been published in magazines so your patterns must have been scrutinized before you could release / print them… Thanks for your advice - this has always stopped me from trying to design something because I just want to make sure I don’t do anything wrong… -Erica 🇺🇸
I loved this video, ( I've just had 10 days in NZ, I do hope you"re heading down to the south island.....It's stunning down there, that said, given you live in Scotland, maybe you wont find the South Is as "activating" as I do. )Anyhoo, I was so happy to come back to TWO videos waiting for me from you!! You're so incredibly generous, thank you for sharing your expertise and insights around design. The colour of that non stick, stick season jumper you're wearing looks so gorgeous on you!! Thank you again for this video, I don't think you realise how amazingly inspirational you are :)
I very much enjoyed your articulate, thoughtful answers. Please do more of this type of content!
Thanks, I really enjoyed that - so many insights into your process. Meantime I’m keeping cosy in my beloved Cargill.
Love listening to you Rebecca! I could sit and knit with you all day. You are so straightforward and I love that quality in a person 💕 you are also extemely talented AND Scottish 😁 yay ! You are on my list of designers for patterns this year.. pls keep going 🏴 forevah
Hi Rebecca, thank you so much for sharing your thoughts on size inclusive patterns. In a future video would you please consider recommending some other pattern designers who share similar values/
This was very interesting. Thank you. I’ve applied to test for you a few times. I’ve never been selected but I’ve never taken offence. I don’t think or at least I hope people understand. I have always just assumed it is due to number of applicants, size I chose. It may or may not happen and that’s ok. I will still get to knit it once the pattern is released. I appreciate that you don’t want people to feel bad but I think we are all just so excited by your new patterns we just want to get our hands on it. 🤣🤣
I love the conversation!!
For some perspective on why it can be harder to find testers in larger sizes: besides many tests not having a big enough window of time to complete a larger size knit, cost can be prohibitive as well!
I’m a larger size and shy away from test knits because it takes ALOT of yarn for me to knit a sweater, so I have to be very selective with what projects I’m going to knit in a year simply so that I can afford it. I 1000000% understand that not every pattern writer can partner with a yarn company to provide yarn support, but I feel like I would be more likely to jump on a test with yarn support because I wouldn’t be putting out so much money on top of time knitting the pattern. I WISH I could participate in more test knits, but the reality is that even just one sweater is SO expensive
This was full of helpful and insightful information. Thank you for sharing
You are very talented and just great to watch and listen to.what an inspiration ❤
This was super interesting and very enjoyable- thanks for the time you take to share your opinions and experiences. Your passion and conscientiousness are admirable and also inspiring, and your patterns are so lovely and wearable. You are a gift to the knitting community❤
Well, this was an enjoyable and interesting episode for me, and what I want to know is how many hours are in your days as I don’t know how you fit everything in!
What an interesting episode from start to finish!! ❤
Thanks for this video, I enjoyed the insights about pattern designing and grading!
Loved the q and a, ive followed you from the start and am so pleased with your success. Much love xxx
Hi Rebecca! I always love your designs and videos….thank you for the depth of sharing on the topic of being a knitwear designer. Loved it all. You rock. 🩷
Thank you for all you do!! This was GREAT!!! ❤
Love this video and the other new things you’ve been getting into on your channel! Thank you for being so open about your design process and everything that goes into it! This was so fascinating!
Thank you for sharing your experience and knowledge 🧶
Thank you so much for your discussion. I just want to be able to design for myself. I have some ready to wear sweaters that I love that I want to duplicate as they are getting old and worn, but I’ve always felt to intimidated to try. ❤
Thank you for this! I don’t have plans to start designing, but I learned a lot from this video and I found it really interesting.
This was so fun, thanks a lot !!!
That was really interesting, thank you so much for explaining. I am not the best with math and so I shy away from trying to do calculations, but I know it’s important and will try harder. Also, thank you for being conscious of your speed and I had no trouble understanding the full podcast . I greatly appreciate it.❤
Hi Rebecca you re so talented I ve been knitting for sixty odd years wouldn’t know where to begin and seventy next month but young in heart Isn’t it freezing cold here in edinburgh just now we re looking forward to spring in Eyemouth at our holiday home for better weather hopefully Am knitting Amy’s poncho just now it’s lovely too
It's FREEZING this week! But grateful for an excuse to wear even more knits.
Thank you for a good episode 😊
Brilliant answer to sizing patterns. I to get fed up of patterns not going up big enough. What shouldn't Large ladies and gentlemen wear lovely knits like their thinner friends and family. So good for you, keep doing what you are doing for us larger folk, we love you for it. Love your podcasts and since I found you I always watch when a new episode pops up. Thank you again, you are brill. Xx🧶🧶🧶
Thank you for your podcast on the design aspects of knitting. Yesterday we watched Rugby Scotland v I can't remember. Lol. Take care ❤😊
This dink loved your TED talk 🙂❤️
YAAAS
enjoyed this immensely youre an inspiration to many!
Well done! It was fun
I like a discussion video. We are all getting to know you which is a fun thing to do.
What a great honest video- I know it is not easy to put yourself out there but thank you.
Lack of size inclusivity is a topic that really grinds my gears.
Lately what really annoys me is the comeback of releasing a pattern with 5 sizes and pretending that 20 cm ease means one designer is inclusive -because the largest size is 160( yes but let’s take away the ease).
Or the lack of size range/coherence ( a size 2XL in a pattern measuring the same than a size 10 in another one).
But more than anything lately what really gets to me the 4/5 week test knit deadlines.
I really can’t fathom why these type of practices keep happening when the feedback is loud and clear: testers need time, and the more you have to knit, the more time you need..and at some point I also think as consumers we do have a responsibility too of not participating/enabling such practices. Sometimes it might mean not applying to a test knit of someone with cool designs ( but I think if not all my friends could make it in all their sizes, then I don’t want it either).And I say this knowing I should have lead by example and might not have done it occasionally.
But recently have started to take a look at my pattern library and really question who in here cares about size inclusivity?
Thank you Rebecca,loved to hear your reflections, also learned a new term (from another DINK!😅)
Hi! New subscriber here and recently became obsessed with knitting now I understand how to read a pattern! Came across your podcast and love it! I’m visiting Edinburgh in June and wondered if you could recommend / do a video on Scottish yarn & lovely yarn shops to visit! I’m ready to shop! 🎉
So interesting - loved this video!
Thank-you for this podast Rebecca, I found it all very interesting. I have a further question - you spoke about sewing as part of your foundation for knitwear design? - I've both sewn and knitted for a long time - often not both at the same time - but (probably because knitwear is both stretchy and I've mostly prefered oversized fit) I've mainly sweated the theory and practice of fit in a sewing context. In this iteration of my knitting career (I'm a very cyclical crafter) I've become more aware of fit issues in knitting but can mainly only conceptulise them in sewing terms. I'd be really interested to hear more of your take on how you apply sewing fit ideas to knitting adjustments. Only if you want to of course. I know this is potentially a big question.
Interesting insights. Thanks for sharing 😊
I thoroughly enjoyed watching this 👍😊
Loved the Q and A! Thanks for sharing your tips and process. I've always wanted to dabble with designing but was never sure how to get started.
There are SO many resources out there! But Sister mountain is a great place to start. And also just do it and see how it feels. It's way less scary once you get going.
Thanks for this video. I'm in the middle of two test knits and I've been wondering if I'm really doing this in a way that makes sense. It sounds like I have a similar approach. If only I had some of your testers. 👻👻
Very interesting thanks. Gosh I love that sweater and the color is stunning on you. I would love to know the yarn.
It's drops alpaca in Green Grass and KFO mohair in in Green apple!
Thanks for sharing your thoughts and opinions on designing patterns. 1:09
Love your podcasts❤
I am not a designer but I see things that I want to recreate all the time. For me it's bags. Currently I want to figure out a way to recreate the Japanese Rice bag in knit.
Really interesting! Thank you
Great Q&A would like to hear how yarn plays in your designing? Yarn inclusive or specific. I recently spotted a pattern that offers kits……the cost was £120 for the yarn😮. Thank you
First off THANK YOU for such a wonderful vlog. Just thank you ... on all 5 points. But especially on size inclusivity. Thank you. You the best.
Ahhh thank you!!
I loved it! Very informative!
I wanted to start by thanking you for your videos( also your patterns), and this one in particular. I find very interesting the topic of size inclusivity and would love to know your take on what Kate Atherley said in this regard in an interview in Fiberchats, Episode: 258 (begins in minute 11:50, and the most interesting after 19:00), if you think it is worth including in a future video. What I understand from what Kate says is that proportions are not the same for different body sizes, so sizing is not as straightforward as one may think, and relies on a good data set. Also different styles or designs may not be as flattering for some sizes or shapes, so maybe size inclusivity might be reached by a wide enough offer of styles/designs/patterns, not just in every individual pattern (which may not be as succesful for the smaller and/or bigger sizes). I'm just trying to learn more about all this, and would really like to hear more, specially from someone who cares about this issue, like you. Thanks again!
Yes! Totally agree with this. Different ease across different bodies is super important. Not every size may have the same amount of positive ease over a certain area. It's a balance between giving everyone the exact same offering and letting them choose for themselves, and using fitting expertise to suggest what ease should be for a size. I'm not quite sure where I sit on that scale. I almost always just ignore recommended ease and knit whatever I want anyway.
LBHandknits (Albiona McLachlan) usually writes about her patterns in detail and different aspects of them in her blog as well as writing recommendations about choosing ease etc. in her pattern. I.ex. right now, she has a blog article about her ribbed designs and how the fabric behaves, how people of different sizes and with different proportions might choose to incorporate ease. I think, this would be the way to go. I really feel included by that approach, without ever using the topic of "flattering / unflattering".
@@shebear9251
Thanks for the tip! Also, i didn't think about the term flattering as a trigger or offensive (of course i didnt mean it like that), but you got me thinking (so, thanks for that one too). I feel like i ought to read my Bourdieu and then some more modern ones!
Very interesting. Thank you .
May I ask what colours/yarn you used for the jumper you are wearing? I love it!! Really suits you too ❤
Hi Rebecca you are such a talented lady , and doing your full time job knitting and having a lovely life ,you go for it girl ,you brilliant with all your designs ,ect , love watching every podcast you have done often a few times ,also enjoy your weekend of rugby too 🤗🤗
Lovely!
Nice, insightful episode. Thank you Rebecca. Keep on designing😊
Thanks for watching!
Thank you, very interesting
Great podcast…
Thanks for a very interesting podcast!
Glad you enjoyed it!
Very articulate!