Designer Spotlight – An Interview with Amanda Kaffka

This month we’re shining the spotlight on a Canadian designer who needs no introduction. Amanda Kaffka, also known as The Crafty Jackalope, joined the Estelle design team earlier this year and we couldn’t be happier. Already a well-established designer with a prolific presence on Ravelry, Amanda’s designs have also been featured in some of the top knitting magazines such as Vogue Knitting and Knit Simple.

Amanda’s designs are thoughtful, creative and detailed without being overly complicated. You probably recognize her exquisite Sampler Scarf from Cascade Yarns 60 Quick Knits for Beginners knit in Cascade 220 Superwash. This is a classic example of Amanda’s attention to detail and her excellent taste in fashion.

How long have you been knitting?

Technically I have been knitting since I was 6, but seriously since 2009.  In high school, before there was internet and the “school of YouTube,” I learned stitch techniques from a little Stitch Dictionary book I borrowed from a friend.  While attending Ryerson Polytechnic University in Toronto, ON studying Fashion Design, I found a few yarn shops along Queen Street.  I didn’t really know how to follow patterns so I would make chunky, rectangle shaped sweaters.  After university I got a photo editing job, during the breaks I would study the pages of Vogue knitting magazine and eventually started a small knit-group with my close colleagues.

Who taught you to knit?

My mom taught me to knit when I was 6 years old on a pair of Arbutus tree twigs which she made.

When did you start designing your own patterns?

In 2009 I started working at my LYS, Urban Yarns, in Vancouver, BC.  The first day I started I picked out a skein of Blue Sky Fibers Melange yarn and came back the next day with a “Flower Headband,” my first design. It took me a long time to make the connection that my Fashion Design Degree had everything to do with designing knitwear; I thought Fashion Design meant woven fabric and machine knitting only. It wasn’t until I completely committed to my business, The Crafty Jackalope, in 2014 that I realized I was a knitwear designer.

Do you have a favourite designer?

There are so many amazing designers, it’s hard to choose.  Two gals from Norway always inspire me: Anna and Heidi from Pickles. I love their design esthetics and details.

Is there a designer who has inspired your work?

I design what I like to wear, fashion and fit are important but also the process of knitting plays a big key in how I design.  I do not overly complicate my designs, but I like to add unusual details and elements that are simple.  I am inspired by designers who do the same.  I rarely have time to knit other designers’ patterns but when I do it becomes part break for me (design-wise) and also a masterclass in pattern writing/style and technique.

What inspires your work?

I am always looking for inspiration, it is all around us.  On the streets, in movies, TV shows and magazines, the architecture and landscapes.  Yarn is also a huge influence in my design process. I often start with the yarn or fiber and create something out of the feel, color and texture.

What has your work as a designer changed in your life?

I do what I love, knit for a living.  It is amazingly fulfilling but can be very stressful.  When I think of doing anything else, there is nothing I can imagine, so I know I am doing the right thing. The challenge is finding the balance between knitting for work, knitting for pleasure and life; I don’t run a 9 – 5 work schedule, my craft is my work so the lines become blurred. The biggest change I suppose, I am a happier person working for myself and doing what I love.

What are your favourite types of items to knit?

These days I love knitting shawls and I always have a Magpie Darling Hat on the go. I also really enjoy knitting sweaters and I have recently started incorporating them into my designs. I have also started making mini designs of my adult sizes; knitting for kids is always a joy, not to mention, the smaller sizes are so adorable and quick to knit!

What is your current favourite colour?

Pale pinks, neutrals, corals, greys, hunter greens.  I do love a splash of hot pink, or mustard or neon green…sometimes.

-With those colours in mind, we sent Amanda a skein of our new Colour Story Handpainted Sock and asked her to surprise us. When she sent it back transformed into a to-die-for shawl, we weren’t just surprised, we were ecstatic!

Speckle Splash Shawlette is a one-skein project that is both fun and engaging. Knit on the bias, this asymmetrical shawlette has a unique drop stitch pattern repeat that highlights the yarn beautifully.

Do you have a favourite weight of yarn to work with?

Fingering weight for shawls; worsted & chunky weight for sweaters.

What is your preferred fibre?

Cashmere…and sparkles.

What other hobbies do you have?

I crochet a bit and I am trying to incorporate simple crochet designs into my catalog. I love cooking, it is my creative outlet where I don’t follow recipes and I don’t have to write out my creations.  I also enjoy working out, I love to travel, and last year I got into biking (peddle biking). I don’t have much time for hobbies outside of knitting and collecting yarn, so most of my activities outside of ‘work’ are spent with my husband and cat.

Do you have a favourite technique or tip you would like to share with us?

Currently I am obsessed with bobbles, tassels and sparkly yarn.  My biggest tip for knitters and crocheters is to make what you love and splurge on good yarn and tools!  I never say ‘no’ to my students when they come to me asking if they can make something…even if I know it will be a challenge.  If they are passionate about it, I explain what they are in for and then we take the plunge! The way I learnt to knit was by choosing patterns that were too hard for me (remember those lace swatches in high school)? 

-Hurrah for Amanda’s obsession with bobbles as it led to the clever creation of the Big Bobble Chunky Cowl! This cozy, cushy cowl is the perfect accessory for cold Canadian winters. Stylish and warm, Big Bobble Chunky Cowl knits up in no time with just two balls of Estelle Alpaca Merino Chunky.

How did you come to design knitting patterns for Estelle?

Follow the sparkles!  The sequin yarn found in the popular Magpie Darling Hats lead me to Estelle.  Meeting the people behind Estelle has been amazing, this family run business really strives to create community and after getting to know the business and people, I inquired about doing some design work for them and they sent me some yarn!

How do you connect to or are involved with the knitting community?

Building community is very important to me, I don’t want to just sell knitting patterns and knit kits, yarn or tools, I strive to inspire and make connections.  My mom and I have a booth at Knit City every year which is an amazing event held by the Knit Social gals. It is a great place to meet the makers and have face-to-face interactions with my customers. I occasionally attend the knit socials that happen around town; I lead knit groups and gatherings; and I go into the local elementary schools to teach knitting to grades 1 – 7, this is my biggest joy.  Excellent customer service and communication is a major priority for my business; I always answer every email and interaction as soon as I can.  I sincerely believe that all interactions are part of building the community, whether it be in person, through email or social media.  Instagram is my favorite social media platform, it’s also a great place to build community.

-We couldn’t agree more, Amanda, building the community is so important and we just love how passionate you are about sharing your love for knitting.

If you’re looking for inspiration, sensational designs, classes or knitting advice we strongly encourage you to check out Amanda’s website, sign up for her newsletter, and follow her on Facebook and Instagram @amandakaffka and @craftyjackalope.

Thank you Amanda, for taking the time to talk to us and for inspiring and educating knitters every day!

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