ALL Daily Report

Dagmar Rousset Online Store

2012-02-09T07:37:00.007-06:00

The Dagmar Rousset Online Store is seriously awesome. Julia carries a tight selection of designers imported from around the world, including Suno NY, Opening Ceremony, Ayame, and Howitzweissbach to name a few. Last year, I designed a limited edition collection for the shop and she still has a few pieces left. The styling and documentation for the site is really great, it's so much fun to see the pieces from a new perspective. I never would have thought to pair everything with white, but I really love how it looks. Very Julia.

Late last year, the brick and mortar shop in Melbourne was in danger of closing, but Dagmar's many fans would not let that happen. I love this store because it was my first, but also because you can take French classes there in the evenings, a wonderful idea I had never heard of before. I'll be sending a fresh batch of skirts, scarves, and hats in a few weeks, keep your eyes peeled if you're local.

All images courtesy of Dagmar Rousset

Settled In

2012-02-06T17:54:00.005-06:00

I'm feeling pretty settled after working in the studio for the past few weeks. Lots of production has been going on as I've been catching with orders and preparing for a lot of deadlines coming up. The biggest news in my world speaks for itself, the rug that Stephanie sent me to fill the center of my space. It is one of the most stunning rugs I've ever seen, and I'm lucky to have such a kind friend.

I'll be spending the rest of the month working on my pieces for the Optical Fiber show at Space 1026 (Philadelphia), which opens on March 2nd. This is a group show which also includes the work of: New Friends, Takashi Iwasaki, Erin M. Riley, Allison Watkins, and Megan Whitmarsh. I will be at the opening, please stop by to say hello if you're local.

Tomorrow is a big day because I have two new allies starting in the studio, Cecilia and Jeremy. I'm so excited for them to get started. I have so much work to do! I'm shipping large orders of hats and sweaters to General Store (San Francisco) and Askov Finlayson (Minneapolis) next week, so keep your eyes peeled if that's your city. I'll have two new stockists to add to the list in the coming months, American Two Shot (New York) and Alfie's Store (Sydney). Sweaters are coming your way, slowly...

WAD Issue #51

2012-02-01T09:45:00.003-06:00

The Winter 2012 issue of WAD magazine came out recently and I just received my copy in the mail. I'm happy to be included in their regular round-up of things to be loved, with the Griddle Box Top and the ALL From Memory Game (designed by Sarah Kissell and Joel Evey). I know I've said it before, but I really enjoy this publication. It's filled with eye candy from cover to cover. And while their editorials seem just as inexplicably strange and annoying as many fashion spreads, I tend to think the magazine supports that eccentric flavor with the total content. I've included a few of my favorite spreads, enjoy...

The Blizzard

2012-01-27T08:27:00.003-06:00

I recently made my third edition for Of a Kind, an exclusive style called "The Blizzard." It's all sold out now, and here's hoping we don't have any actual blizzards this winter season...

Working Today!

2012-01-24T11:35:00.005-06:00

I just knit my first hat in the new studio after spending the weekend moving and painting. I'm still figuring out a lot, but need to work in the space for a few days before I do another round of rearranging. I'm looking forward to having visitors once I've settled in a bit more, something I've missed greatly since I've been in New York. Anniecures will make a revival soon too, barely got started with that one! My skills and supplies have greatly improved since the summer, and I'm excited to start it up again. Here are a few preview images to get started. The sun is shining and I'm feeling good.

New Studio!

2012-01-19T07:46:00.003-06:00

I have been obsessing over Instagram (@annieleelarson) lately and have been shying away from any camera that isn't inside my phone. My new involvement with social media networks has made me think differently about blogging, from the perspective of both the reader and the author. Many of you may not know that I started this blog in 2007, long before I discovered knitting, and I felt like a late bloomer even at that time. My, how times have changed.

That long intro was my way of saying, cell phone images may appear on this blog from time to time, as in right now, as I describe my new studio with great happiness. (I know you're not judging, it is 2012 afterall, and I'm trying to let loose). I started thinking about getting a studio space a few weeks ago, but wasn't planning to make a move right away. Once I started looking, I couldn't stop! All of the prospects were tempting me out of my home studio, and I finally bit the bullet a few days ago. Many more photos to come after I move in and settle this weekend and next week. In the meantime enjoy these gritty previews, including an image of my new (vintage) table, the one I've been waiting for!

Call for Intern...

2012-01-17T08:13:00.006-06:00

This is a long post directed toward those seeking an internship with ALL Knitwear. Read on for a few anecdotes from my own experiences as an intern and information on how to apply.

On my first day as an intern for Target Corporation in August 2006, I wore all black. I remember sitting in orientation wondering if I was in Hardlines or Softlines, I had no idea. On my first day, I met Ann Marie (below, right) who was celebrating her 26th birthday and ecstatic about the gift of iTunes from her husband. Ann became my boss for a short time later on, and is one of my closest friends to this day. My first task was to sketch a pleated, knee-length skirt in KaratCAD, a program I was only vaguely familiar with. While I was meticulously counting out the number of pleats to draw with their curves and top-stitching, Debbie walked by and snorted while laughing. Debbie was the reigning hipster in the office, coming from Otis in LA...I liked Ann better. In my days at Target, I also met Erin and Stephanie, two friends that I've loved dearly ever since. My internship at Target eventually lead me to sweaters and knitwear design, a direction I had never considered. So, I'm looking for an intern...

I'm looking for an intern to begin working with ALL Knitwear during the next few weeks. The position is unpaid, however school credit and/or letters of recommendation may be applicable. You will be invited into a creative environment where the learning is yours for the taking. The commitment would be 10 hours of studio time every week, may vary depending on season and workload. Scheduling can be flexible, applicant must be punctual and reliable, no questions.

Applicants with experience or interest in knitwear design are preferred, but not required. Responsibilities will run the gamut, but an average week will include prepping hangtags and labels, shipping, receiving supply shipments, attaching pom poms, and general administrative tasks. You will be working within a few feet of production for all orders and will very much be at the center of the operation. I am looking for someone that is available for a minimum of 4 months, with evaluation for further opportunity taking place at the end of that period.

If you feel you would be the right fit, please email your resume and cover letter to me (all@allknitwear.com) by January 24th. For the first round, I will only be considering local candidates. With your application, please include one image that you would like for me to see. It can be of anything. There is only one position to fill immediately. All applicants should possess basic computer skills, including an appealing email manor and comfort with Illustrator, Photoshop, and Excel.

Applicants should be prepared for an interview and a visit to my (new!) studio, located in scenic Bushwick off the Jefferson L stop. I'd like to have you start by the beginning of February.

Bamboo Viscose

2012-01-11T08:53:00.002-06:00

I'm not really one for New Years resolutions. Resolutions can focus too much on the past, on poor choices or bad habits, causing us to meddle rather than move on. I do feel a wave of freshness when a new year finally arrives, and this year I'm channeling that energy into trying new things. One of those things is Bamboo Viscose. I am loving this light-weight, drapey yarn, and how cool it feels on the skin. Twenty new colors have arrived and I'll be experimenting with different stripe layouts over the next few weeks. I'm thinking short-sleeve sweaters and raglan sleeves. Yeah summer.

Happy Times

2012-01-09T07:00:00.005-06:00

Here it is! A brief cure for a case of the Mondays. Some of you may recall my elation over this mural six months ago. As soon as it went up, I knew I wanted to see sweaters moving in front of it, preferably during golden hour. I had originally planned to do my whole fall shoot in front of this wall, but decided to reserve it for something a little more special. I hope you enjoy this video as much as I do!

Filmed and edited by Sam Hoolihan
Song "When You're Out" by Velvet Davenport
With Lindsay Noble, Erin Smith, Annie Larson, Tim Hudson,
Brett Smith, Eric Carlson, Derek Maxwell, and Aaron Anderson
Mural painted by Eric Carlson and Aaron Anderson
Filmed in Minneapolis, MN

Coming Soon...

2012-01-05T07:03:00.003-06:00

Sam Hoolihan, who photographed my fall collection (among many other things over time), has been putting together a short and sweet Super-8 film featuring small clips shot during the photo shoots last year. The film is under two minutes long and lovingly compiles a string of moving snapshots to my favorite pop song from Minneapolis artist, Velvet Davenport. Sam has always been pro-active in seeking out and recording the less obvious moments in the numerous times we have worked together. His clever eye and style come through even in the most happenstance of situations. Stay tuned...

2012!

2012-01-03T10:20:00.002-06:00

Getting back to work has been difficult after a long holiday break, but I'm happy to be back in the studio again. I have been posting on Instagram a lot in the past few days and have been enjoying sharing and viewing more immediate content. 2012 is feeling pretty good so far and there are a few things coming up that I'm excited about, but I'm hoping to make this year more mellow. My weaving class at the Textile Arts Center starts next month and I will also be working on a few pieces for a group textile show at Space 1026 in Philadelphia later this spring. Happy New Year!

On Vacation

2011-12-15T08:43:00.004-06:00

The shop is now on holiday vacation. Orders placed between December 15th - 26th will be shipped on January 9th, and regular two-week turnaround resumes for orders placed after December 26th. Cashmere scarves and a few sweaters are available for immediate shipping, email me for details. Thank you to all who have supported ALL Knitwear this season. 2012, here we come. Peace!

Shop Info

2011-12-14T12:35:00.005-06:00

I am still taking last-minute hat orders to be shipped by December 19th, but will be closing down shop for the holidays very soon (likely sometime tomorrow). Order now or wait until 2012! Happy Holidays!

Cashmere Scarves Available!

2011-12-13T14:36:00.013-06:00

If you're looking for a last minute gift for a special person in your life, I have select cashmere scarves available for purchase. These are ready to go and will ship within a few days. All of the scarves are 100% cashmere, doubled, so both sides are identical. They have all been pre-washed by hand and are remarkably soft and warm. Dimensions and prices are listed below, and you can purchase directly from this page if you are interested. Please email me with any questions, now back to knitting...

2 x 6 Vertical Stripe: 6 inches wide, 68 inches long, $175.00 USD.

Pink Full Spot: 6.5 inches wide, 77 inches long, $200.00 USD.

Bright Coney Box Top

2011-12-08T13:39:00.004-06:00

This is the third colorway for the Coney Box Top, there will be two available at the sale on Saturday!

Hat Farm

2011-12-07T08:44:00.006-06:00

I will have over 30 hat designs available at the Holiday Sale on Saturday. Most of them are one-offs like you see here, and all of them were made special just for the holidays. Anything that remains after the sale will be available for purchase online, I'll post details at that time. Nearly everything I'm bringing to the sale is unique from the items currently on my site, no overstock or samples (save for a few sweaters, priced accordingly). I'll be accepting cash or credit, minimums may apply. I'd love to meet you and have a chance to hand you one of my new business cards, see you soon...

For 2011

2011-12-05T11:40:00.005-06:00

Visit me at the Holiday Sale this weekend for a chance to purchase one of these special cardigans, a unique style created to commemorate the year 2011. I will have a range of sweater styles available, but only two of these cardigans, so get there early if you need one. Hope to see you there!

"Gift-Wrapping"

2011-12-02T07:50:00.003-06:00

Uline is one of my favorite places to shop. If I had more time, I would peruse the whole catalog front to back like I used to do with JC Penney and Spiegel when I was a kid. This holiday season I will gladly "gift-wrap" your purchase with a sheet of spots and a solid color plastic bag (colors vary, they're all good). The handle makes it easier for grabbing. Leave a note in the message section with your purchase if you would like this free service, or send me an email if you have already placed an order and still want in. Supplies are limited so I can only offer one "gift-wrap" per order. Happy Holidays!

DON'T WAIT!

2011-11-30T07:44:00.003-06:00

Thanks to all who have supported ALL Knitwear so far this season! I have been knitting non-stop and have already made 283 stocking hats to send out into the world. This is my official message to remind you not to wait to place your holiday order! I will be shipping final packages between December 16th-19th, and while it should be plenty of time, please understand that I cannot guarantee delivery by December 24th. That's why you should place your order right now! I will be taking orders up until I absolutely can't take anymore, so don't be discouraged by the regular 2-week turnaround if you're last minute like me. And, I'll always be on the other end ready to communicate with you about the status of your order. Limited edition items available at the Designer Holiday Sale, preview below. Bye-Bye!

Holiday Shop

2011-11-29T10:50:00.003-06:00

I am very honored to be participating in this designer holiday sale, coming up on December 10th in Chelsea. For this special event, I will have a limited edition of cashmere scarves available, as well as a selection of one-off hats and sweaters. Previews coming soon! I am so excited to meet many of the designers I have admired over the years, and anxious to see their work up close. I will be there all day, so please stop by to say hello if you are in the area, I'd love to see you!

Sunday at the Park

2011-11-28T07:08:00.009-06:00

I feel refreshed after a very satisfying holiday and a quiet weekend spent lounging on the couch and crunching through the leaves at Central Park. New traditions were born at our first Thanksgiving in New York, and we were happy to spend the day with a few friends, slamming fistfuls of dice down on the table and screaming maniacally. We also visited Lady Gaga's holiday pop-up shop at Barneys, which I enjoyed very much, I highly recommend it. I picked up a few things, but was much more interested in the merchandising and in-store design, which I thought were executed beautifully (more here). I think I was 20 the first time I visited New York City all by myself. I stayed at a hostel in the East Village and the first place I went was Central Park because I didn't know anywhere else. I found Strawberry Fields and sat there reading books, imagining some day I would live in this city...

44 Of A Kind

2011-11-22T09:02:00.004-06:00

Claire and Erica at Of A Kind were kind enough to ask me to do a second edition for their popular online boutique, which features exclusive and limited editions of products from an impressive range of up-and-coming designers. I made the La Giraffe Hat in a very special colorway, edition of 44. They just started releasing two designers every week, so their site is very active! Some of my favorite editions from past designers include this top from Upstate, and this necklace from Erin Considine. I think this hat is hilarious! I have to admit, it took a long time for it to grow on me, but I sincerely love it now and hope you do too. These girls managed to make it look chic, what will your flavor be?

The Super Multi Hat

2011-11-21T07:14:00.004-06:00

The Super Multi Hat is now available in an edition of 5 at the Ship & Shape store! There is a wonderful selection of beautifully hand-crafted gift items, all from Minneapolis artists and designers. I picked up one of Crystal Quinn's Cosmic Wraps, and the Wooden Totem Necklace from Annika Kaplan, selections from a long list of loves. I can't wait to welcome them into my life! I plan to wear the scarf tied in my hair and the necklace with crisp white oxford, buttoned all the way. What will you do?

Cashmere Returns!

2011-11-17T07:56:00.010-06:00

I had a pretty decent amount of cashmere left over from my Miami sweater, and finally decided to use the rest of it to make a limited edition of scarves for the holidays. There will only be about 10 available in different pattern variations and sizes, I will keep you posted on how to purchase if you're interested! In other news, I have two hat styles and a scarf now available at Madewell online, as well as in select stores. I am honored to be included in their holiday gift guide and upcoming catalog, check it out!

Ship & Shape

2011-11-15T07:08:00.005-06:00

I have some exciting news about a great project that my friends in Minneapolis are launching on November 20th. Annika Kaplan, Erin Smith, and Maddy Nye will introduce Ship & Shape, an online boutique featuring limited edition, seasonal, handmade clothing, accessories, stationery, artwork, products for the home, gifts, and more. I am happy to have a never-seen-before stocking hat in the first round of editions, alongside many designers and artisans that I admire.

Reviewing the list of 15 contributors for their launch, I realized that I already own pieces from many of them and have incorporated the hand-made into my everyday life much more than I thought. This is a really exciting time for craftspeople, and our audience is growing as people become more and more disgruntled with mass market retail, and a greater importance is placed on the quality, longevity, and beauty of objects. Artists are elevating their products and branching out to explore larger retail concepts, and as consumers, these should be reasons to buy. Check out the shop when it launches on Sunday, and consider supporting if you find something you like. It's better made by hand!

Winners

2011-11-11T07:49:00.005-06:00

Congratulations to Dell Stewart and Scoops, the two winners of the hat give-away! Thank you to the 69 people who entered, I truly hope your winters are warm and cozy. The image below is a still from some recent Super-8 footage, filmed by Sam Hoolihan during the fall hat shoot. Here, Derek Maxwell models Don's Hat. More to come for the holidays, have a great weekend! And don't forget...

Around the House

2011-11-09T12:26:00.009-06:00

I've really been enjoying our new apartment, but we both quickly realized that we just couldn't go on any longer without a couch. Having a place to relax that's not sitting in front of a computer is really crucial for us, otherwise we can't unwind until we go to sleep at night. After a few days of pretty thorough web research on couches, we finally decided on an option that will be delivered to our place in the near future. There are a lot of bad couches out there, but I think we picked one that we will like for a long time. You won't have to wonder what it looks like for too long, I'll report back after it has arrived and we've had a chance to properly veg. I will point out one of its best assets, the fact that there aren't any individual cushions for crumbs to fall into, which is great for us because we love chips!

Win-Win Situation: Fall Giveaway!

2011-11-07T06:38:00.005-06:00

The seasonal shift into Daylight Savings Time can be cruel for some, so to combat the impending winter darkness, ALL Knitwear is introducing a fall giveaway where two lucky winners will be selected to win the hat of their choice. Don't forget to check out my new fan-page on Facebook where I have been sharing news, unseen inspiration, outtakes, and other relevant tidbits from around the web. Here are the details for the giveaway, good luck!

-Enter your name and email address in the comments.
-Tell me, what are you most looking forward to this coming winter season, and/or which hat would you choose, and why? See here for hat options...
-Entries will be accepted through the end of the day Thursday, November 10th and the two winners will be announced on Friday, November 11th, a.k.a., 11-11-11!
-The winners will be randomly selected from the pool and notified by email.
-International and domestic participants are welcome, and the items will be shipped for free anywhere.
-Please do not email your entry, I will only accept submissions left in the comments, thank you.

*If you wish to gift your prize to someone else, please specify in your comment and be prepared with the proper info should you win!

Friday

2011-11-04T10:02:00.003-05:00

Feeling cozy at home in my 2x2 Black on Cream Leggings, gearing up for another pot of coffee and knitting, knitting, knitting. I love the way the stripes ripple and twist, couldn't resist taking a few photos. I've been wearing my brand new Stegmann clogs non-stop since I received them in the mail, my second pair in this lifetime (the first pair lasted ten years). If you love felted clogs, you have to try this one, they feel divine and last forever! Have a zippy weekend wherever you are...

Color Inspiration

2011-11-02T14:56:00.002-05:00

My mom sent me this book for my birthday, and it's pretty amazing. Each page has one color paired with ten different color options, showing you in advance what a color pairing may look like. I find I am often drawn to the same core colors year after year, some preferences don't fade, but newness can come with changing a color's surroundings. Sometimes I find myself knitting a sweater that only uses the colors I happen to be wearing that day and it seems wrong right away, too easy or something. But I get a kick out of it anyways and appreciate its inclusiveness in the end, I enjoy being reminded that humans are never thinking about just one thing. The socks seem to fit in quite nicely with the book, a purchase I made in one of my many shopping excursions recently. Stripes are so good...

Jackie O'Lantern Comedy

2011-10-31T08:14:00.006-05:00

Ghosts, werewolves, bats, goblins, monsters, werepanthers, vampires, witches, necromancers, zombies, and...Sookie, you may now follow ALL Knitwear on Facebook, where you may also like me if you want. Happy Halloween to the living and the dead! R.I.P.

Moon on Miami

2011-10-31T07:50:00.002-05:00

These custom powder-coated benches of Jim's are so cool. I got to ride along to the powder-coating facility during one of my studio days in Miami. The perfection and consistency of each individual color was so satisfying to see in real life. The bench seat is made of out handicap rails with custom-fit components making up the under-section, and the color palette is stunning. Don't you want one?

Nylon Korea

2011-10-27T07:43:00.005-05:00

I received my copy of Nylon (Korea) in the mail soon after we arrived in Brooklyn, and I am happy to have a small feature in the magazine. I went back to look at my responses to the questions and none of them were very good, so it's probably better that most of you won't be able to understand what the text says. I love seeing my friends in the magazine with me too, makes me feel like I have company. Yesterday was my 28th birthday, and I actually feel older this time. Saturn has returned, I'm moving on!

Now Available!

2011-10-24T12:06:00.004-05:00

I won't be putting this up in the shop because it's too much work to reformat, but please pass this link along to anyone you know who might be interested in purchasing my version of the hat in question. And as a side note to my previous post, I'd just like to add that there are many talented, innovative designers out there that work for companies like Urban Outfitters that don't want to copy other people's work and would love the chance to design freely and originally within their role. Companies should be enabling their creative teams to use their own unique ideas, the product will follow suit.

F.U., U.O.

2011-10-24T07:26:00.005-05:00

Please be aware, Urban Outfitters has copied my designs! The hat you see below does not belong to me and was not created in any part by ALL Knitwear, even though you can see the pattern is identical. The company has reached out to me a few times in the past for coverage on their blog, but have never solicited a partnership or use of my designs in any way. This pattern was developed for my first collection of knitwear that was released in April 2010, and was used in two different pieces as you can see in the images following. It has also been used multiple times in alternate colorways.

Even though neither of these styles are available on my site any longer, I am pretty dismayed with this situation. However, I am not surprised and nobody I have mentioned it to has been surprised either. Why is this? It's because Urban Outfitters and many other mass market retailers blatantly copy the work of other people without permission and attempt to pass it off as their own. For example, this hat is being marketed as a "UO Exclusive." Hmmm...

Eric spotted this hat at the Urban Outfitters near Soho yesterday, a mere ten minute walk from Madewell, where you may purchase authentic ALL Knitwear hats and scarves that were actually made by me, and properly acquired for resale. If you plan to purchase one of my hats from a bricks and mortar store, please consider supporting Madewell for ethically representing my work (and the work of others) as a third-party brand in their assortment. Stop riding my steez, Urban Outfitters, I see you!

(Pictured Above: Urban Outfitters "Neon Stripe Beanie", 100% Acrylic, $29.00)

(Pictured Above: ALL Knitwear Stripe Stripe Midi Tank and Stripe Stripe Super Stasher)

More Home

2011-10-21T07:40:00.003-05:00

My perception of time is starting to return to me. The last month was crazy, everything was so hectic with the move and my whole schedule was destroyed. I love my schedule and it feels great to return to work, but it's taking awhile to get back into the groove. There's always something new to do, and everything is an adventure. I've had a list of loose ends to take care of every day for the past two weeks, but I'm nearing the end. It's been very pleasant working in our new space and I am surprisingly relieved to live in a place that has walls and doors. I'm already starting to form new routines and feeling pretty settled overall. Here are a few more photos of my studio area and our new and improved bedroom. Our last bedroom was a lofted space with no windows, it felt like a cave for short people, so we are pleased to have a big bedroom with tall ceilings and two windows. We bought the cheapest wood bed frame from IKEA and painted it black, along with all of our wall-mounted shelves. And yes, we listened to the Rolling Stones, how could we not?

YES

2011-10-18T12:44:00.008-05:00

Crystal gave me a long-anticipated hot pink tattoo right before I left Minneapolis. I wanted something positive and small, in a place where I could see it every day. The actual procedure took place in two segments, with the final touch-up occurring only a few hours before leaving for New York. Crystal and I share a life-long love for all things John and Yoko, and all things hot pink, so you'll understand why I say that nobody else could have given me this mark.

For Beth

2011-10-17T13:10:00.000-05:00

Brooklyn

2011-10-12T08:35:00.001-05:00

We packed up a sixteen foot moving truck and drove from Minneapolis to New York last weekend. It rained all the way through Pennsylvania and the ride was gloomy, but exciting. I think I had sweaty palms the whole way. It was hard to know where to start when we arrived, but we have arranged enough living spaces by now that we make a very effective team. Below is the room that is presently serving as a very generous home office and occasional dining table (we are lucky to also have an eat-in kitchen). Someday we hope to have a living room in here, but it will take a little while to figure out the right way. Our studio is in a separate room at the front of our apartment, behind where I'm standing to take this photo, and the kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom are off to the back.

During our five day marathon of unpacking and rearranging I also made eight six-foot curtains for all of our windows. I can't believe I actually did it, I'm famous for procrastinating on these types of tasks, so much so that I've never even made curtains before. At the last minute, we decided to do black top-stitching instead of white, a decision I am truly happy we made, inspired by a very chic Rachel Comey canvas bag I received with a pair of shoes awhile back. I'll post more photos as I figure out how to photograph our new space better. I am back to work full-time now and have already been knitting a lot and have some very busy weeks ahead of me. It's good to be here!

New Sweaters & Hats!

2011-10-10T07:17:00.005-05:00

Today the ALL Shop updates for fall with 12 juicy new hat designs and a healthy selection of sweaters that are both emotional and comical. The collection, which has no name, is the last to be designed and produced in Minneapolis, as I have since moved myself and my sweaters to Brooklyn, NY. Late summer was a truly bittersweet time for me as I was preparing to leave my friends and family in the Midwest, and it seemed more important than ever to draw them in close to inspire new creations.

Thank you to Sam Hoolihan, who photographed all of the new fall items, and Marais USA for helping me out with the shoes. All of my love goes to Lindsay Noble, Erin Smith, Tim Hudson, Eric Carlson, Aaron Anderson, Emily Snyder, Crystal Quinn, Derek Maxwell, Celestine Pueringer, Maddy Nye, Paul Puleo, and Brett Smith for making my sweaters look special. Love you!

Family Values

2011-09-22T12:55:00.005-05:00

I just visited Wisconsin for one last time before the move. I went with my girlfriends and we had a wonderful time celebrating my Mother's birthday and roaming the countryside. I will share a few bits from our adventures later. For now, here is a relic I brought back to take with me to New York, a seat cushion made by my great-grandmother. I love this thing, I can't wait to find a chair for it to cozy up my new studio. We are in crazy-mode here getting ready for our moving sale this weekend. Yes, we are having a MOVING SALE this weekend! The sale is on Sunday, September 25th from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Email me if you need the address! See you soon!

ALL Shop is Hiding

2011-09-14T10:15:00.003-05:00

Hi Everyone! I wanted to let you know that the ALL Shop is going to be hiding for the next few weeks as I move cities and prepare for the fall update. The shop will re-open with new items on Monday, October 10th, including 12 new hat designs and some other tricks and treats. Plenty of older styles will still be available too, sweater season is almost here! We are shooting the new fall pieces today and there's a nice chill in the air, perfect for modeling sweaters. I better put another pot of coffee on.

Oh, Navy Girl

2011-09-13T12:48:00.004-05:00

We spent last week in New York looking for an apartment. We found our new place on the first day and got to hang out for the rest of the time, a much needed break. One of the things I did in my free time is pretty obvious, I had to go shopping. I purchased the hat first, but I already knew in my heart that I was going to buy the shoes. Either way, it doesn't matter, I think they are going to look great together. I have really been upping the amount of navy in my wardrobe recently, so there will be plenty to wear in between too. The best thing about the shoes is that the decorative flap is removable so they can also be worn as a classy, plain oxford as well. So smart! La-la-la-la!

And the Winner is...

2011-09-06T08:02:00.005-05:00

Congratulations to Marie of Plastic Foliage, the winner of the contest!
I don't know Marie, but I have admired her adorable children's clothing made from repurposed materials for a long time. Not even a week ago, I came across this printed cat t-shirt while doing some feline research for a side-project and commented to my friends how this kitty must be the niece of a different fictional cat in my life. Don't worry if that doesn't make sense, the point is that who could have ever known that the creator of this cute shirt would turn out to be the winner of this contest! The world truly is small. Here are a few of my other favorites from Marie's shop:

Thank you to everyone who entered the contest, I had so much fun reading everyone's comments, which varied from humble confessions of selfishness to endearing stories describing the perfect recipient. If anyone is interested in knowing where I stand on the issue, I definitely would have given this hat to my friend Ruby. She's four years old and the sweetest thing on my block. She pays visits to me nearly every week and we blow bubbles, paint nails, and sometimes even dance to the Rolling Stones. Oh, and she loves pink, more than anyone I know, even myself. I definitely plan to do this again sometime in the future, so stay sharp, and stay sweet. I love you!

Beetlejuice

2011-09-01T08:44:00.004-05:00

I have been working on more new stuff for fall, including lots of black and cream, one of my favorite color combinations. My last photoshoot in Minneapolis is a few weeks away and it will certainly be bittersweet. I've got my best gals ready to go and a fun day planned for us.

I wasn't able to schedule an Anniecure for last week but I've got a handful coming up in the future. I decided to do my own nails instead, since my last job was clinging desperately by a few chips of paint. This is my favorite personal nail job to date, I have big plans for lady-bugs next, life-size. Don't forget about the contest, it ends on Monday! I'm already nervous for the drawing, who could possibly win?

P.S. Where is my thumb? I don't see it anywhere here...

Enter to Win!

2011-08-30T08:50:00.007-05:00

Today, I am excited to introduce my first ever give-away! Please help to spread the word to anyone you think might be interested. Up for grabs is a Dash Dot Triangle Hat (S/M) of the watermelon variety, one of three in the whole world. Get ready for fall in style! Good luck, and see details for entry below:

-Enter your name and email address in the comments.
-Tell me, if you win, would you keep the hat for yourself or would you pass it on to someone you know? Elaborate on who the recipient would be, or why you would put it on your own head first. Your answer will not determine whether or not you win and there's no right or wrong answer, I'm only curious.
-Entries will be accepted through the end of the day Monday, September 5th and the winner will be announced on Tuesday, September 6th.
-The winner will be randomly selected from the pool and notified by email.
-International and domestic participants are welcome, and the item will be shipped for free anywhere.
-Please do not email your entry, I will only accept submissions left in the comments, thank you.

Looking for a Studio

2011-08-26T07:56:00.006-05:00

We have a trip planned to apartment hunt in New York in a few short weeks. I have been dissecting the Listings Project every Wednesday morning, and I always manage to find a few options that I love, but I'm looking for a little help. Do you live in New York, or have friends that live in New York, or have relatives that own a warehouse, or something else like that? If the answer is yes to any of those questions (or, if you are just patient and kind), here is my call to you...

I am looking for a professional studio space to move ALL Knitwear. I am pretty flexible with neighborhoods, but have been looking for living and working spaces primarily in Brooklyn. I would prefer a private space, but am open to a shared situation as well. This space would be a clean, tidy environment, with 24-hour access, wireless, etc. I have hopes for a window or two and hardwood floors would be great. My work set-up more or less consists of a couple of tables, a few shelves, and a desk for my computer. The knitting machine is very noisy and could be disruptive to studio partners throughout the day, depends on your tolerance I suppose. I generally use the machine from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (with many breaks in between, it's not constant) and work on quiet tasks before and after.

All logistics considered, I am really looking for a place that is professional and clean, where I can be happy to come to work everyday and feel comfortable welcoming guests and clients. I spend so much time working and it's really important to me to be content with my surroundings. If you made it this far in the post, thank you, and if you have tips please send them my way. I <3 NY.

Feeling Miami

2011-08-24T08:22:00.006-05:00

I have been putting the finishing touches on my piece for the Jerome Fiber Art Show coming up at the Textile Center. Working with cashmere and handfuls of tiny pom poms has been a lot of fun and I'm excited to show the finished garment. The show, Spaces Between, opens on Friday, September 16th with a reception from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. My piece will be shown with works by three other fiber artists from Minnesota and will be on view until October 15th. I will post another reminder closer to the date, but if you live in the area I would love to see you there. Please say hello!

Anniecure No. 2

2011-08-22T08:10:00.006-05:00

I performed Anniecure No. 2 last Friday on volunteer participant, Jahna Peloquin. Jahna writes about fashion, art, and culture here in Minneapolis for local publication Vita.mn, and also pens a blog on similar topics. On Jahna, I wanted to try something new, a mosaic effect using many different colors on each nail. I was pleased with the result and plan to attempt this treatment on my own tiny nails sometime. I would like to try to do one Anniecure per week between now and October, please contact me if you're interested. This one hour service is free for volunteer participants, and intended to be approached with open minds from both parties. Boys accepted, no feet please.

Madewell

2011-08-18T08:41:00.002-05:00

One of the major projects I worked on over the summer is an order of hats and scarves for Madewell, available in select stores and online this fall. I have been plugging away at this order slowly for weeks and the stock has been building up under my tables. This is my first order for a sizeable national retailer, and I have encountered many processes and tools along the way that make the product packaging and its entry into society much more official. I have to admit, I was beyond intimidated after scanning through the 200 page vendor manual provided by the company, but after I recovered I came to realize how much fun I would have putting it all together. I fantasized about multi-color swiftachs, officially printed barcode price-tags fresh from Hong Kong, and uniform poly-bags that have never been used before (I usually recycle). It took a long time to source everything, but I finally have all of the pieces to get this stuff ready to ship, including the colored swiftachs in green and pink. Life is good!

Fall is Near

2011-08-16T08:28:00.005-05:00

It's hard to believe that this photo was taken nearly two years ago, the length of my hair is a trusty indicator, it's twice as long now! Fall is my favorite time of year, after summer, which is my first favorite time of year. The weather has already started changing a little bit and I've been enjoying the rare late-summer luxury of wearing pants instead of shorts. It's the time of year where we wrap up summer and settle into fall. I like thinking of it as settling, like leaves and bodies, getting ready to rest for the winter. Except, I won't be resting this winter, not one bit. It's almost sweater season and the fall update is coming on October 10th, live from my new home in New York City.

At the Table

2011-08-11T07:57:00.003-05:00

I've seen a lot of good shirt combinations while looking at the backs of people that work at the center table in our studio. Sometimes, the whole table is lined with computers and it starts to feel like a very humble Apple Store, with iPhones and iPods scattered in between coffee mugs and crumbs. Living on the ground floor with a private storefront entrance is wonderful for visitors. Neighbors and friends stop by often and the people scenery is always changing. I find these boys here often, hunched over their computers, making jokes and making work. You may see some of their work next Thursday, August 18th at the Trylon Microcinema in Minneapolis, where they will show their new video work called Prrple Rain. I'll be there, with snacks! Is this thing in 3D?

In other news, I conducted Anniecure No. 1 earlier this week on my first volunteer participant, Beth Chekola. This is something I've been practicing for all summer, and I even got to try a new technique that practically worked! Anniecures are one hour sessions of color for your nails (top-coat included) and open discussion about anything. Who will be next?

Celebrity Guest

2011-08-09T07:42:00.002-05:00

It's a Boy

2011-08-05T07:49:00.002-05:00

I have been preparing for a hat photoshoot this weekend, one of two photo sessions to take place this fall. I am thankful to have a whole afternoon's worth of friends stopping in to get underneath and inside these hats, all in their own special way. A pile of turtlenecks anxiously waits for the crowd to arrive, ready to dazzle in front of the camera. I created this hat the other day and have been told it's a boy.

Yen Magazine

2011-08-01T23:25:00.002-05:00

I just received my copy of Yen Magazine, a winter issue that includes a feature on ALL Knitwear. Yen is based in Australia and to be honest, I haven't really had a chance to look through it too much yet, but I plan to read it on the plane tomorrow morning. Yes, that's right, I am going on a 24-hour marathon trip to New York and I leave tomorrow morning at 6:30 a.m. (What am I still doing up?)! I've never done anything like this before but I'm really excited about having a little break. I plan to meet new friends traveling from the other side of the world, do a little shopping and maybe even sneak in the McQueen show at the Met if we're lucky to fit it in. New hats are coming soon, and some of them are funny.

Ina Grau

2011-07-27T08:12:00.005-05:00

I'm practically speechless, but I think I can muster a few words about the most beautiful new handmade shoes a girl could ever ask for. Crystal Quinn and Luisa Fernanda Garcia Gomez started making shoes together last year under the name Ina Grau. It's pretty remarkable to realize how much they learned during that time and I loved being able to see their progress during their open house earlier this summer. It was at the open house that I spotted a sample pair of the shoes pictured here (in gold), and also how I came to be their first customer.

These beauties have a custom laser-cut leather sole, just the right amount of character in just the right place. The interior and heels are red with a tiny peek of black stars, and the tassels pay tribute to the original gold pair that I fell in love with. Every detail is considered and the craftsmanship is beautiful. The shape is so sophisticated, I love how high they come up and the slightly pointed toe. Haven't you always wanted to know someone that can make you a custom pair of shoes?

Stocking Up

2011-07-26T08:23:00.002-05:00

I was working on some new hat designs over the weekend when I remembered that I needed to find a home for this hot pink pom pom. My design process is pretty unofficial when it comes to these things, I usually just take a few minutes to think as hard as I can and try to visualize the hat I want to make. In this instance, I could only imagine this pom pom with yellow and black, and so that's what I did.

Cheeto Composition

2011-07-21T08:28:00.002-05:00

I've been working on a series of special sweaters to send to Julia's store, Dagmar Rousset, in Australia. This is one of the styles, very back-to-school, don't you think? The series consists of six different styles and will only be available through her shop. If you live in Melbourne, your day is coming soon. I'll be sure to make a post when everything is available!

Hanging On

2011-07-19T07:47:00.003-05:00

The last few weeks have been hot and stressful. Our non-AC studio is basically as hot inside as it is outside, and during a special time in the early evening it feels even hotter in here than out there. I have been very grumbly during this time. It's just too hot. I want to abandon my work and go to the movie theater but I can't, there's too much to do. Yesterday, I shipped off 23 sweaters and today I will ship off 5 more. I really like this pom pom though, it reminds me of Oscar the Grouch, just like me.

Sweater Barricade

2011-07-12T13:53:00.004-05:00

I went to a psychic reading over lunch today and Judith seemed to know that a big change is coming. All of my cards seemed to revolve around this big thing happening in October. And there is in fact something happening, which is that we are moving to New York. Yes, it's true, we put our notice in on our apartment yesterday and are planning to move by October 1st. I will continue to fill this place up with sweaters while I still have the room (and this awesome BluDot table) and then get rid of everything when fall comes on. There will definitely be another sale, and this time everything really must go! I feel like I can't take my foot off the gas and everything is great.

New Glasses

2011-07-07T08:03:00.003-05:00

I started out the summer determined to wear contact lenses every day. Even after diligent daily wear, I still couldn't get down with them and was a little too happy to find out that my old tortoise frames had not made it through a lens upgrade at my regular glasses shop (they snapped right in half). Because of the mishap, I had to pick out a new pair of frames right away to at least be able to wear at night after I take my contacts out. I was open to the idea of finding something just to hold me over and reserved hope that I would find something I loved as much as my last pair. After searching through all of the vintage options a number of times, I finally settled on these, a delicate wire frame with a thin, black, plastic casing around the lenses. I was uncertain right away but am very happy now that I've gotten used to them over the past few weeks. They are very light-weight and almost function like goggles which is especially useful while I'm knitting. I said good-bye to my contact lenses.

Waves of Joy

2011-07-05T08:17:00.005-05:00

I was so inspired when I rode my bike up to this wall last week. Eric and Aaron were finishing up after a few days of work and I felt so happy just staring at it. It's located on the west wall of my favorite coffee shop, the place where I nurtured relationships with many of my closest friends and spent hours reading books and playing Scrabble during college. The colors, texture, and scale are so much more impressive in real life, and coming around a corner to see these colors entering your field of vision is pretty magical. I learned what the "golden hour" is over the weekend and am already planning a photo-shoot in front of this wall for later this summer. If you live in Minneapolis, stop off to see it sometime (it's at Caffetto), you will love it too.

Twenty Pounds Foolish

2011-06-30T08:46:00.005-05:00

I have been plagued with indecision this week. This doesn't happen often, but I just don't know what to do. The cashmere yarn I have been fawning over recently is now available for a special offer that I don't know if I can pass up. The offer applies to six gorgeous colors (including the almost-neon green you see here), and with the addition of just a few colors I would have a complete palette to work with. The catch, of course, is that I have to purchase twenty pounds, which is like buying a years supply of cereal or something. The initial investment would be huge, but the change would be exciting and the yarn is really special. The average sweater takes about one pound of yarn to make, but I am thinking I would lean more towards hats and scarves if I go through with this, for a little holiday glitz. I have two weeks to decide...what to do...what to do...

For Faythe

2011-06-28T10:50:00.003-05:00

Cashmere

2011-06-23T08:10:00.002-05:00

I have been working with cashmere for the past few days, and it is so exciting. Since my return from Miami, I have been thinking about what my project is going to be for the Jerome Fiber Art Show at the Textile Center of MN. I started by deciding on what colors I wanted to use, completely open to the fiber type, and ended up choosing cashmere because the colors are just right and I have been waiting for the opportunity to properly experiment with a luxury yarn. I'm waiting to get the full cones but I was able to do a few trials with the samples I received in the mail. Crystal tried a pom pom (a crucial part of the sweater design) and it is one of the most plush things I have ever touched. When I was leaving Miami, Jim sent a few cones of a synthetic thread he likes to use with other yarns and I tried mixing the orange with a single strand of pink cashmere (last photo) and it creates a sort of subtle space-dyed effect. It does this because the thread alternates whether it appears on the front or back of the knitted piece. It's too bad this yarn is so expensive because I really could get used to working with it. Would you buy a 100% cashmere sweater?

ALL From Memory

2011-06-21T11:05:00.004-05:00

ALL From Memory is a commemorative game set and booklet designed by Sarah Kissell and Joel Evey, and it is now available in the ALL Shop! It contains 10 pairs of cards using symbols and names to describe favorite patterns from the first year of ALL Knitwear, along with a book detailing gameplay and showcasing the original pieces in full color. Printed on a RISO V8000, Xante & Epson PRO 9880 in an edition of 30. Each set is numbered and includes a 20 page booklet and a pack of 21 cards (includes a bonus emoticon joker). Available in four limited edition colors. Printed and assembled by Sarah and Joel in Philadelphia.

Sarah and I have been friends for a long time and I was happy to oblige when she offered to design a print piece for my online store. This was originally planned to be part of the Annie-Versary a couple months ago but it didn't quite arrive in time and I was just finally able to get it up online today. We'll just call this the after-party. Thanks to Sarah and Joel for everything!

Moving Along

2011-06-16T08:38:00.004-05:00

I don't have much to say about this week. It has been very pleasant with a few fun interruptions including my very first "Lady Dice" night. I have been working on some new pieces for a special project and keeping up with the day to day. I'm looking forward to attending the Ina Grau open house this weekend, a collaborative shoe-making endeavor by my friends Crystal and Luisa.

Keenan-Longley

2011-06-13T07:52:00.003-05:00

I attended a baby shower over the weekend! There were wonderful snacks, drinks, and friends. It was a co-ed event with no games or organized events besides painting baby clothes, so it was more like hanging out than anything else, with the added excitement of bringing a baby gift. I made a pair of booties for the baby, a unisex style that can hopefully be passed on to a younger brother or sister in the future. I can't wait to meet the feet that will rest in these plump little things.

I also did a little web updating over the weekend, including the addition of the Custom Library to the ALL Knitwear site, where I have posted a selection of custom styles I have made in the last year. If you follow this blog you will have seen all of the items on view, but I think it's nice to see them all together.

Summer Special

2011-06-09T07:44:00.002-05:00

I worked on a few custom orders this week, a welcomed change of pace from the regular. A few days were spent backpedaling as I made the royal mistake of completely knitting the wrong sweater for an order. I've never done that before (come close), but I really didn't notice my error until I was sliding the sweater into a mailing envelope. It took until yesterday to fully recover but the rest of the week and weekend should be smooth sailing. This is a sweater I just shipped off to Australia. Is it daggy?

Good Weekend

2011-06-07T07:51:00.003-05:00

While I was in Miami, I found out that I had recently been printed in the Sydney Morning Herald's weekend publication, Good Weekend. I appreciate the intimacy of being recognized in only one city, but enjoy being spotlighted in a regular, democratic vessel like the Sunday paper. I have a copy in my hands now, thanks to Ping who brought the article to my attention and later sent me a copy with Aussie chocolates and a sweet note. By the way, does anybody know what "footy" or "dag-tastic" means? I'm slowly building up my Australian vocabulary bank, and I literally have no idea what these words could mean. Thank you to GW and Ping from the other side of the Earth.

Before They Were Hats

2011-06-03T08:13:00.001-05:00

Catching Up

2011-06-02T08:37:00.002-05:00

I am finally feeling like I am back in the swing of things, one week after returning from Miami. It has been pretty hectic catching up on orders and trying to organize a few other projects looming overhead. In the last week I have made 8 hats, 1 scarf, and 7 sweaters, and will be visiting the post office for the third time later today. There are a few exciting things on the horizon and my summer is filling up fast, but I won't let it go by without me this year! I'm still learning how to manage my time quite right and I hope to work a little less in the future, but for now everything is okay. I still had time to BBQ, eat Cuban breakfast, dance at the Honeycomb, play softball, paint tiny fingernails, and make brownies. I'm losing my tan, but it's good to be home.

Miami

2011-05-31T07:56:00.007-05:00

Miami was a wild ride, the kind that you like and would do again. Documentation was not my number one priority while I was there, so the photos are of poor quality but descriptive in their own special way. For the moment there isn't much else I would say, aside from the fact that this was the most inspirational and refreshing trip I have ever been on. There are things that I was stressed out about before I left that I literally forgot about while I was away, and when I came back everything felt better.
UPDATE: Here is the link I promised to a very comprehensive Jim Drain studio tour, enjoy!

The Cutest

2011-05-28T10:02:00.004-05:00

I have read Jenny Gordy's blog for a long time, and while I love reading about her process and viewing her exquisite craftsmanship, I always love seeing images of Jenny the most. I bet you know how I feel if you are a reader too, there's just something about her, so sparkly! In fact, I feel that way about nearly all of the fashion-related blogs I read, seeing the author can be so much more interesting than fashion. I took a tour through Jenny's photostream this morning and found a goldmine of photos of her throughout the years and I couldn't stop looking. Reading the commentary makes it feel like one of the most authentic things I've looked at in a long time. Here's what she said about this photo,"You can't tell from these photos, but I'm actually really cool. Okay, I'm lying." She looks so cute and goofy! I'm so happy I found this, and it has inspired me to take a trip to the eye-glasses shop this morning. My prescription has worsened a few steps, and even though I'm trying to wear contacts now, I just can't resist the opportunity to try on a few just for fun.

Tidbits

2011-05-22T22:39:00.001-05:00

I am trying to blog from my iPhone for the first time so I apologize if it comes through wonky. I have been in Miami since Wednesday and so far things have been pleasantly strange, bright and full of color. The weather is something to write home about which I will do now. Each day has been 88 and sunny with clear skies and hot sand. Though I must confess, I have only seen the sand a few times as I have been spending most of my time working indoors.

Jim is funny, brilliant, unassuming and warm. His work is even more impressive in real life and his dense studio is filled with gems to uncover. I will post a link to a very thorough studio tour conducted by not-me when I return to a regular computer, it will make your brain smile. I am fortunate to be staying in a fully furnished apartment, generously offered up by the De la Cruz Contemporary Art Center just a few blocks from Jim's studio.

Miami is bizarre. It seems to be the complete opposite of Minneapolis more and more. Jim's studio is located in a mall, yes, a mall with a fountain downstairs and a Marni just around the corner. It's wonderfully unusual and pretty fancy. Biking has been an adventure in itself and I am eternally grateful for both the bike and the helmet to keep me speedy and safe from haphazard Miami drivers.

Much more to come when I return, until then...

Sent from out here!

Sports

2011-05-12T07:41:00.000-05:00

I found this image online a few weeks ago of a Coney Box Top modeled by a man and styled with a bright yellow North Face jacket. I really love how purple and yellow the picture is, and it's fun to see one of my sweaters on a male figure. I dragged it onto my desktop and failed to note its origins, and when searching this morning I couldn't seem to find it again. If you know any information about the spread, stylist, or photographer, please do pass it along. I believe it's from Australia. The opposite of North Face is Miami, where I'll be next week, knitting sweaters in a new place and sneaking away to the beach in between. I've been excited about this for months, can't wait to be there.

Update: Thank you Beth for providing the link!

Piece

2011-05-09T16:13:00.008-05:00

WOW! Take a look at this new tote bag I just ordered from TEAM Print Shop in Oakland! Isn't it AWESOME? I already took it for test drive this morning on a trip to the post office and grocery store and it looked good the whole way. These are the guys that printed the TEAM: Annie Road t-shirt (hence the name), and are friends with good ideas like the Bieber-Slayer shirt. This stylish number is printed on both sides with ink the exact color of pizza sauce! To make this tote way summer, I am thinking about tie-dying it. I mean, pie-dying it. Yeah...

Celebrate!

2011-05-04T09:41:00.005-05:00

Now available in the ALL Shop are two special edition colorways of the Sticker Stripe Box Top and the Coney Box Top, two of my inaugural sweater styles for the online store. Celebrate one year of ALL Knitwear with a discount on the original or updated versions of these two sweaters through Friday, May 6th (treating you to $15.00 off the regular price). ALL Knitwear loves you, get in there!

Annie-Versary!

2011-04-29T08:19:00.006-05:00

The ALL Shop turns one year old today! Last year at this time, on this exact day, I opened the shop without having a single clue of how it would work out. For some funny reason, I decided to open on a Friday before leaving town for the May Day weekend. I spent days preparing my shop site, learning everything as I went along. When I had the idea to use the stickers as icons over the front page image, I spent hours rearranging them over and over again. Throughout the past year I have made hundreds of sweaters, hats, and other accessories and shipped them to locations all over the world. I keep learning new tricks and techniques every day and don't tire of the process. It's hard to describe, but this type of making seems just right for me. I can definitely keep doing this for awhile.

The Coney Box Top and the Sticker Stripe Box Top were the first full sweaters I designed for the shop, and they continue to be favorites to this day. To honor and commemorate these first designs, I will offer special edition colorways, available in the shop next week. Be sure to check back here for more details! Thanks to everyone who has supported ALL Knitwear in its first year!

Spring Clean-Up

2011-04-26T08:34:00.002-05:00

It finally happened! Spring cleaning is almost finished. It has been a multi-week process but I'm finally starting to feel the difference. One of the major undertakings was dealing with my yarn/fabric storage and blocking board that is piled with sweaters ever week. I used to do a lot of sewing, so I've always made room for fabric storage in my studio. Now that my focus has changed to ALL Knitwear, I felt like I was wasting a lot of valuable real estate that could be used for more relevant storage. So, I packed up all of my fabric, saved a few special stacks and plan to donate the rest. I moved the sweaters right in and everything feels so much better. It's amazing what a day of cleaning can do for your soul. I felt so much better after clearing out a lot of the old and unused stuff in our life. I just need another visit to the nail salon and I am completely ready for summer.

Dangle!

2011-04-21T08:07:00.003-05:00

I have been antsy for this jewelry trade with Molly Erickson to happen ever since I saw her colorful beads dangling off the ears of some dear faces around town. I almost exclusively wear dangly earrings and these will serve me well for a long time. The long one was custom designed to be the whole length of my hair, 19 inches from my ear! Each design is perfect in its own way, and every option looks great with my new cream and black reversible bikini.

It was Molly's idea to trade for the earrings, and I was ready to offer up whatever she wanted for a custom series. We each gave minimal direction for the other to follow and went on our separate ways for a month before coming together for the official exchange. I came up with the shorts pattern below and am happy with how nice our wares complement each other. Dangle!

Rummage Sale

2011-04-19T09:03:00.004-05:00

We had our first ever Rummage Sale this past weekend. Can you believe all this stuff? For only having two closets, I'm not sure where it has been hiding for the past two years, but believe me when I say EVERYTHING (leftover) MUST GO! Friends came in and out all day, making a respectable dent in our selection. The rest will be donated to charity and the free-shelf at the art school across the way. We ended the day with the first BBQ of the season, and I was spent.

Future Trade

2011-04-14T08:27:00.006-05:00

The past few weeks have been busy but I haven't had much time to work on anything out of the ordinary. Lucky for me, I am trading a custom piece for a series of custom jewelry that I am ecstatic about. This jewelry is out of control, can't wait to show it off. The pink and black mini-dash is the first pattern I made with DAK, inspired by Crystal's watermelon pom-poms. Now, all I can think about is a pink and black mini-dash sweater with pink and black mini-dot poms dangling off the front. Some matching shoes would really make it. The red and lime strip reminds me of Strawberry Shortcake.

So Long

2011-04-12T08:35:00.004-05:00

I dug out these old sneakers during spring cleaning. I've been saving them for years because I can't bear to throw them away, at least not without paying proper tribute. My sneaker collection has increased steadily over the years, but rarely strays from these basic shapes. Canvas is preferable because it's tough right away without feeling too thick and wears perfectly over time.

I got the high-tops in 1997. Right away I wore them with rainbow laces which looked good with candy necklaces and glitter. These shoes have been with me through every phase of my formative years, so I am grossly protective and sentimental about them. The checkered Vans came around in 2002, following my long-time high school crush on Tony Sales, the grandson of Tyrone Power. He moved to my tiny town in Wisconsin and blew everyone out of the water with his bright blue hair and checkered shoes. He was gorgeous. The last two pairs were worn to practically every show I went to between 2005-2009, and have been stomped on by crowds of people dancing. I wore the black ones to Coachella and was met with disgust by the airport employee working the security check on the way home. I think she would have asked me to keep them on my feet had they not already been in the bin.

Now I have almost all new shoes. My feet feel nice in sneakers that are still crisp and clean. I'm starting to wear sandals and am considering new shapes, like wedges and platforms. I recently bought a new pair of black high-top Chucks, and they are the dorkiest thing I own. It's nice to have new things, but I will never love another pair of shoes as much as any of these.

It's Really Happening!

2011-04-07T08:11:00.003-05:00

Spring started happening this week! We've had a few 55 degree days with bright blue skies, and I've already been tempted to have the first iced coffee of the season. I have still been spending most of my days indoors, happily knitting away on my new machine. I'm waiting for a little break to get some more time in with the DAK Software, but the ease of having all of my patterns memorized in the machine's memory has already spared me a daily angst I had become far too familiar with. To debut some new patterns developed with this software, I will be releasing a few very special designs later this month to celebrate the one-year anniversary of the ALL Shop.

We live in a little pocket next to the I-35W. Sometimes it feels a little troublesome to live in this location, with all of the traffic driving by to get on the interstate, making the already deep pot-holes from a long winter even worse. Only a few pizza places deliver to this side of the interstate and the street parking is a nightmare. But, just a few steps outside my front door is the entrance to a walking bridge that spans across all of the lanes of traffic and offers my favorite view of the city I live in.

Breakfast Face

2011-04-05T08:58:00.002-05:00

New Stockists

2011-03-31T08:34:00.005-05:00

ALL Knitwear is now available for purchase at two new retailers. Douglas + Bec is a small shop run in conjunction with a design studio and gallery, based in Auckland, New Zealand. It is nearing the winter season in that part of the world, and if you live locally you will soon be able to shop from a range of hats and scarves. General Store is a retail environment created by Serena Mitnik-Miller and Mason St. Peter, located in San Francisco. A colorful selection has been available in-store for the past month, please stop in if you live in the area. (Also, they carry Beatrice Valenzuela handmade shoes here and many other beautiful items for your body and home). Thank you to Rebecca and Serena for including me in their retail spaces. And don't forget, if you live in Melbourne, you can experience the ALL Knitwear range in its entirety by stopping into Dagmar Rousset where I have been sending new sizes and styles every two weeks. Shop till you drop!

(Douglas + Bec, 9 St. Mary's Road, St. Mary's Bay, Auckland 1011, New Zealand)

(General Store, 4035 Judah Street, San Francisco, CA, 94122)

KH-965i & DAK 7

2011-03-29T07:49:00.002-05:00

Wheeeee! I have finally had a few days to work with my new machine and software set-up. In some ways I have been dreading this transition because it is completely upsetting the way I have been working for the past year. But mainly, I am so pleased and excited to be working with new tools that my enthusiasm is overshadowing any doubts. I have been temporarily setting up shop across the way at the center table, to keep the old machine in tact until everything has been transferred over, and to access my computer which is now a priority.

Part of this new process has involved tapping into the Windows side of my partitioned hard-drive. It's a different world over there! I had no idea that starting my computer in Windows would actually be like operating a PC inside of a Mac. I guess I don't know what I was expecting, but when I got over there and was greeted with full-on Microsoft language and graphics I felt a little overwhelmed. Yes, I am a Mac snob, even though I grew up using PC's and worked on one for three years at Target. But after I changed a few themes around and actually started using Design-A-Knit I started to warm up to Windows a little bit more, and now...I'm starting to like it over there...

White

2011-03-24T09:56:00.003-05:00

Who is ready for spring cleaning? It's been on my mind for weeks now. I'm not sure what I'm waiting for. The five inches of snow we got yesterday is putting a damper on my spirit, not the kind of white I was looking for! This year, I am finally wanting to get rid of everything. All of those beautiful thread-bare t-shirts I have thrifted over the years can finally go. So too can my 1980's earring collection, scores of cassette tapes, bolts of fabric, books, and a massive heap of shoes. I can't wait for the day when we can open up our kitchen screen doors to the back garden. Let summer in!

Hot Pink

2011-03-22T10:06:00.008-05:00

This is going to be my color this summer. You know what looks great with hot pink? A golden brown tan! I have been slowly adding pieces to my summer wardrobe and bargain-hunting online has become one of my favorite activities. A few of my most recent purchases have been hot pink, a color I welcome after months of only wearing blue and gray. I spent the whole last year visiting the Marais USA site over and over again, trying to figure out which of their stylish options would suit me best. I debated many options but never thought that the patent leather Criss-Cross Sandal would be the one. When I received my package in the mail yesterday, I knew I made the right decision. They are beautiful! Every detail was considered and I can't wait to wear them all summer long. I am going to Miami in May and am craving the heat and sock-less days.

Happy Friday

2011-03-18T08:34:00.001-05:00

Another Brother

2011-03-16T09:32:00.004-05:00

Yesterday I welcomed another Brother into my studio! I have been anticipating the arrival of my second knitting machine for a few weeks and it is finally home. This model was manufactured in the late 1990's instead of the early 1980's like my other machine, and because of this it offers many functions and possibilities that my current set-up lacks. In addition to the new machine, I also purchased Design-A-Knit, the famous software for home knitters, so I may now join the ranks of hundreds of ladies throughout the country that can babble on about DAK. Prepare for a deep dive into zany, I've just been dipping my toes into the water up until now.

In other news, thank you to everyone who has made a purchase from the new collection and sent kind words of support, I appreciate you! Finally, I wanted to mention the launch of a new site, Studio-Sweet-Studio, described as a happy place for artists and visual enthusiasts. This is the work of one of my favorite new buddies, Tuesday Bassen, and functions as part of her senior project in her final semester at MCAD. Tuesday conducted a studio tour at our place and an extensive Q&A session that promises to be a refreshing break from the usual.

ALL Knitwear SS/2011

2011-03-13T21:59:00.008-05:00

New styles are now available in the ALL Shop! This collection features all of my favorite colors with new patterns ranging from cacti to confetti. Create whole outfits with pattern multiples or mix and match! Peruse new silhouettes like the festive Confetti Split Cardigan and the wild Freestyle Shift 001. All styles made from ringspun cotton yarn, looks great with summer!

Modeled by Jess Hirsch, Alberta Mirais, Celestine Pueringer, and Lindsay Noble.

Art

2011-03-11T08:05:00.003-06:00

Look! I got my nails done yesterday with my pals. It was the 27th birthday of one of my finest girlfriends and my treat was a full manicure and nail painting for both of us. I've had a manicure before but never anything like the one I had yesterday (the other one did not include a parrafin dip or the hand-painted nail art). I'm sure I sound like a bumbling novice, but I would definitely do this again and recommend it to anyone who is looking for an activity that is both pampering and fun. I can't help but imagine all of the other nail art possibilities that exist out there, and of course, the thought of making my own nail designs entered my brain immediately. Polka dots and smiley faces? Yes!

Pink Lemonade

2011-03-09T09:05:00.003-06:00

Spring is a-coming! Daylight savings time starts this weekend, the days are getting longer, it's still snowing outside but I don't care. I am ready for spring and so is the ALL Shop, which will update with new goodies on Monday, March 14th. If you are on the mailing list, you will receive an email reminder with the particulars. Many of the items presently on the site will go away with the exception of a handful of favorites. The shop will be squeaky clean and full of color, get ready for happy.

Still Wearing Hats

2011-03-07T12:30:00.002-06:00

Esprit de Corps

2011-03-04T09:39:00.009-06:00

WOW! My friend Sarah sent me a whole slew of scans from a 1980's Esprit Catalog this morning. It is jam packed with many highly inspirational spreads and page designs, I felt elation as I scrolled through. I grew up wearing Esprit, a lot of it, so this hits close to home. I love everything about the hang-tag spread, from all of the different design variations to the multi-colored swift tacks. The shirt flats with the friendly arms are so simple and endearing, and the colors are right up my alley. YAY!

WAD!

2011-03-02T08:57:00.005-06:00

When I was in Paris last fall, I was introduced to a few editors of the French design and culture magazine, WAD. This quarterly magazine features tons of fashion designers from all over the world, big and small, for both men and women. The unisex approach is nice for those that enjoy looking at styles for both genders, like me.

After I returned from my trip, I was contacted by their office to contribute to their Winter 10/11 Issue #47, which I received in the mail last week. All of the text in the magazine is printed in French and English, and I especially enjoy the creative rendering of Lindsay's face. The English translation is pretty wonky, I can hardly make sense of it. I was trying to tell the story of my first sweater commission for a man and his chihuahua but the details didn't quite make it. Regardless, I am honored to have been included in this issue, take a look!

Front Row Seats

2011-02-28T08:55:00.002-06:00

Dash Dot and Dear

2011-02-24T10:00:00.003-06:00

The Dash Dot Triangle Hat has been my favorite since the beginning. It seems to be your favorite too, because I have made more of these hats than any other (I have 10+ stacked up on my blocking board as we speak). I knew in the bottom of my heart that at least one watermelon pom would have to go with this hat because favorite + favorite = ALL time favorite. The other one waits in the front-line, ready to jump on to the next hat at any moment.

And if things couldn't get any cuter, may I introduce you to Tuesday Bassen (yes, that is her real name, aren't you jealous?). I met Tuesday a few weeks ago, she is a student at MCAD and my long-lost friend. We have almost everything in common, and how about those glasses? Tues is a bright spot and looks wonderful in her new Dash Dot Triangle Hat, don't you think?