Behind every yarn and pattern we feature in our clubs there's a dyer and a designer; they are all incredibly creative, hardworking individuals and we want to give you the chance to get to know them a little bit better!
With month three of the 2019 Tosh Shawl Club fast approaching, we wanted to introduce you to the designer of this year's gorgeous shawl: Ambah O'Brien!
Why did you start designing patterns?
It
was quite spontaneous, as a fairly new knitter I didn't think that I
would ever design, however I was always tweaking and exploring as I knit
from patterns, then I had an idea and decided to try it out. With some
encouragement from my friend and LYS owner I decided to publish it as a
pattern. I was amazed by the response to it and immediately had a new
design on my needles - I haven't looked back since then!
What was the first pattern that you designed?
My first pattern was a single skein eyelet shawlette, Kinta. I later added
a two skein, larger version and another knit up in a gradient yarn. I
had lots of fun with Kinta.
Where do you find your inspiration for your patterns?
Everywhere!
Often it will come from the yarn itself, as I collect a group of
colours and dream up a design to complement them. Fashion is an
inspiration, I may see a shape or pattern or group of colours that spark
my imagination, as does the world in general, regional and urban areas.
Sometimes I begin with an idea of something I'd really like for myself,
a style of garment or an accessory.
Would you describe how you feel when you see someone making/wearing your designs?
It
is so exciting, I adore seeing the colours people choose for
their projects, and get very inspired by this. My heart fills up when I
see folks wearing my designs that they have knit and added their own
stamp of creativity to, it's very special.
What are some signature features of your designs?
I
do explore ideas and techniques; in general, I'd say modern, geometric
inspired designs, colour, and a mixture of textures like lace with
garter stripes.
Are there any “rituals” that you might have while designing patterns?
I
like to have my yarn sit out for a while, so I can look at it over
several days in different light, switch out colours if I am using
several and generally let the ideas start to play in my imagination.
I'll think about it a lot as I drift off to sleep too.
If you could partner with any dyer, who would it be and why?
Wow,
I feel so lucky to have partnered with many amazing dyers already and
would be delighted to work with any of them again. Recently, I discovered
a newer Australian Dyer, Terina from Love and Speckles, she created
amazing Advent yarn kits and some really unique colours. I'm looking
forward to creating a design with her yarn this year.
Are there any hints you can give about upcoming designs?
You
can expect lots more shawls and garments from me in 2019. I'm pretty
excited about a cute mosaic DK weight jacket I will be releasing in
February plus I collaborated with 2 yarnies to create 2 shawls for Vogue
Knit Live NYC and am really excited to wear and share these.
What’s on your needles/crochet hooks now?
I'm
currently making a colourwork pullover in a gorgeous merino-silk blend,
perfect for our summer here right now in Australia. It has a gorgeous
drape. I'll be releasing this in early April.
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Have you signed up for 2019's Tosh Shawl Club?? It's not too late! Sign up here and receive everything you need to catch up on this year's shawl! And if you'd like to see more of Ambah's designs, click here!
