About Shannon Maria

I learned how to knit when I was a teenager.  I borrowed my mom's encyclopedia of stitchery and taught myself - first knit then purl.  I didn't make anything interesting or notable until my 20s.  I had started many projects and most ended up unfinished with wonky proportions that looked nothing like what was shown in the picture.  I have come to realize, in retrospect, that this happened because I purchased my yarn from our local discount department store and bought what was cheapest without giving any consideration to gauge and more importantly, design.  I have come to learn that there is a reason why every single pattern says, "Check your gauge."

I am really crafty and I love making things: card making, baking, cooking, sewing, and knitting are some of my favourites.  When I was in my 20s, I went to a baby shower and my friend Jonie knit a beautiful baby sweater and hat as a gift.  It was Jonie who rekindled my interest in knitting.  After that shower, I bought a book of baby patterns and started knitting sweaters as gifts.  Knitting baby clothing is incredibly gratifying.  Not only is it faster, but I admit that I love the accolades.  "Wow, you made that?  That's amazing!  You're so talented!"  Who doesn't love praise?

Now I'm in my 30s and I knit all the time.  I still knit baby clothing for gifts and have ventured into making hats, wraps and cowls for friends.  I rarely knit for myself, although I am trying to change that.  I completed my first adult size cardigan for myself in 2010.  It turned out beautifully and has inspired me to make others.  That said, knitting full sized sweaters is a major commitment and I find that I get bored before they are complete.

THE  LOWDOWN:
Favourite Needles: Harmony Interchangeable Circular Knitting Needles
Favourite Place to Buy Yarn: Bee Hive Wool Shop in Victoria, BC
Favourite Knitting Websites: Ravelry.com and Purlbee.com
The Books that I Keep Going Back to: Fitted Knits by Stephanie Japel and Adorable Knits for Tiny Tots by Zoe Mellor
Knitting Philosophy:

• Be a perfectionist and fix the flaw.   If you don't, you will notice it later.
• Choose interesting and beautiful designs.  
• Understand shapes and designs that flatter.
• Don't be afraid to change a pattern.