9 Mayıs 2017 Salı
Reorganizing the Hand Knits
I've been doing some reorganization of all of my hand knits. Some time ago I realized it made sense to keep the shawls and accessories together and put the sweaters together. I'd been arranging everything in the past by colour in a large armoire, in the drawers and on the shelves. I've been doing the reorganizing as I wore things but the shifting around has gotten messy. Empty spaces are in the wrong places. I'm about to pull out everything and start fresh. I've also realized it would be a good idea to put the summertime sweaters in one spot. The armoire above isn't mine but it is almost exactly the same as mine. Before I start does anyone have any great tips on how you organize all of your hand knits?
An Interview with...Amanda Kaffka
Once a week I post interviews with interesting people about their insights on their experience of working in the Knitting industry. I’ve noticed that every one of these individuals makes their living in a slightly different manner bringing their own unique presence to the knitting world.
You can find Amanda here and here on Ravelry. Additional links are here:
https://www.thecraftyjackalope.com/blogs/the-inspiration-placehttps://www.thecraftyjackalope.com/pages/dear-knitter
https://www.facebook.com/craftyjackalope
https://www.instagram.com/amandakaffka/
https://twitter.com/CraftyJackalope
Where do you find inspiration?
I find inspiration everywhere: I see it in architecture, in nature, in people-watching, in movies, in TV shows, by traveling, from my friends, from the runways and magazines, from yarn to color to textures….
What is your favourite knitting technique?
I really love rhythmical knitting; like sinking my teeth into a stitch or pattern that might look complex but I can memorize pretty easily.
http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/peppercorn-pullover
Do you look at other designers’ work or are you afraid that you will be influenced by their designs?
Of course, I look at other designer’s work all the time! I like to know what my peers are up to; I have my own style/aesthetic and I can certainly appreciate other designers while keeping true to myself and staying original. When I am not designing, I am knitting other designers patterns which gives me a bit of a break but also teaches me new knitting skills and pattern writing techniques; I think we can all learn together and through each other in this amazing community!
http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/ribbon-rock-cowl
How do you feel about the so-called controversy of “dumbing down” patterns for knitters?
To be honest, I never knew there was a controversy. When I write my patterns, I like them to be 100% professional and to me that means adding standard abbreviations list, including a gauge, needle size, schematics, measurements, and clear instructions. I also believe in great customer service. I answer everyone’s questions and inquiries promptly, I pride myself on that and do not get annoyed that someone has asked me a question that goes beyond the pattern. I learn from people’s questions on how to make my patterns better and other service I can offer in the future, like tutorials or videos. Last year I started a column on my website called “Dear Knitter.” Basically, anyone can ask a knit/crochet/craft related question to and I answer them publicly and I keep the answers up as reference.
http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/peppercorn-pullover
How many sample/test knitters do you have working for you or do you do it all yourself?
I knit all my designs/and final samples multiple times. That being said, I get 3 – 5 test knitters per design. I like to see different point of views of knitters, knitting my designs. The feedback is invaluable!
Did you do a formal business plan?
No…I just started designing before I realized I was “starting a business.” I was working at a LYS so teaching and designing seemed like a natural part of the job. When I officially launched The Crafty Jackalope, it was too late to start over with a business plan! That being said, I do write out yearly and monthly plans/goals for designing and financials.
http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/bandana-rocks
Do you have a mentor?
I do not have a mentor but I mentor other small businesses. The Crafty Jackalope was not my first business so I have a bit of experience and I help out where I can; I think giving back is so important!
Do you have a business model that you have emulated?
Not really. I try not to compare my style of designing or running a business to other designers. I think process can be tricky and very individual. It took me a long time to embrace my style of designing and being OK with how I get to the end result or run my company. Of course, I am always seeking inspiration on how to organize, or to run a business, and get social media and promotional strategies but I am careful to stay true to my style; I usually find this inspiration through reading books and through forums and blogs.
http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/portobello-cowl
Do you use a tech editor?
Nope. I do everything myself, from design, to knitting, to writing out/formatting the patterns, any graphics, schematics etc... this is an asset and a bit of a curse. I do however, have a fabulous friend that will edit my written content for major publications.
How do you maintain your life/work balance?
This is a hard one. When you own your own business, it is hard to shut off or end work at 5 PM like the rest of the world; there have been many times where I choose work/deigning/teaching over socializing with my friends. My husband is a good reminder that I need to take breaks or I need to stop working at 12 AM…I am passionate about what I do and as a designer, my brain never shuts off. Traveling is a great way to relax and get me out of the office…which is my home. Also, cooking is another way I stop “working;” it’s creative, I don’t follow recipes which is liberating and my husband is amazing to cook for, he likes everything!
How do you deal with criticism?
If you put yourself out there you have to be prepared for some criticism. Luckily, I do not get a lot but my heart sinks a bit when I do. In reality, the criticism is more helpful to improve than the praises; I take the criticism and use it as a tool to get better, become more of an expert and to expand on my business.
How long did it take for you to be able to support yourself?
After dabbling in-and-out of LYS and designing from 2009 – 2013, I officially launched The Crafty Jackalope in the beginning of 2014 independent of any other job.
What advice would you give someone who wants to pursue a career in knitting?
Pursuing a career in knitting is not the same as knitting for pleasure; 99% of what I knit is not just for fun or just because, it’s work. Having a knit career takes a lot of time and perseverance and because of the Internet, anyone can literally be a designer so it is up to you to go above and beyond to be recognized, to stand out, and to be able to make a living. If you have the passion, the time (whatever that means to you) then I would say ‘just go for it’ by testing the waters and start by posting your patterns to Ravelry, Craftsy, Etsy, Loveknitting and see if you, a) enjoy it and b) see what response you get. Don’t quit your day job until you put your designs out there and see how the market responds; you will know when the right moment is for you. It is a risk but I love what I do and ‘knock on wood’ I would never go back!
What’s next for you?
This year, 2017 is pressure packed! I am teaching knitting classes at the LYS and going into the Elementary schools, along with hosting private knit lessons around town. On top of the busy teaching schedule I am currently working on 3 books and 2 mini collections. I am also always developing new knit/crochet kits (yarn/pattern) which I feature on my blog and offer through my website. And, along with everything else, I am always finding new ways to develop, grow and expand The Crafty Jackalope. Phew, sounds like I need more hours in the day!
You can find Amanda here and here on Ravelry. Additional links are here:
https://www.thecraftyjackalope.com/blogs/the-inspiration-placehttps://www.thecraftyjackalope.com/pages/dear-knitter
https://www.facebook.com/craftyjackalope
https://www.instagram.com/amandakaffka/
https://twitter.com/CraftyJackalope
Where do you find inspiration?
I find inspiration everywhere: I see it in architecture, in nature, in people-watching, in movies, in TV shows, by traveling, from my friends, from the runways and magazines, from yarn to color to textures….
What is your favourite knitting technique?
I really love rhythmical knitting; like sinking my teeth into a stitch or pattern that might look complex but I can memorize pretty easily.
http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/peppercorn-pullover
Do you look at other designers’ work or are you afraid that you will be influenced by their designs?
Of course, I look at other designer’s work all the time! I like to know what my peers are up to; I have my own style/aesthetic and I can certainly appreciate other designers while keeping true to myself and staying original. When I am not designing, I am knitting other designers patterns which gives me a bit of a break but also teaches me new knitting skills and pattern writing techniques; I think we can all learn together and through each other in this amazing community!
http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/ribbon-rock-cowl
How do you feel about the so-called controversy of “dumbing down” patterns for knitters?
To be honest, I never knew there was a controversy. When I write my patterns, I like them to be 100% professional and to me that means adding standard abbreviations list, including a gauge, needle size, schematics, measurements, and clear instructions. I also believe in great customer service. I answer everyone’s questions and inquiries promptly, I pride myself on that and do not get annoyed that someone has asked me a question that goes beyond the pattern. I learn from people’s questions on how to make my patterns better and other service I can offer in the future, like tutorials or videos. Last year I started a column on my website called “Dear Knitter.” Basically, anyone can ask a knit/crochet/craft related question to and I answer them publicly and I keep the answers up as reference.
http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/peppercorn-pullover
How many sample/test knitters do you have working for you or do you do it all yourself?
I knit all my designs/and final samples multiple times. That being said, I get 3 – 5 test knitters per design. I like to see different point of views of knitters, knitting my designs. The feedback is invaluable!
Did you do a formal business plan?
No…I just started designing before I realized I was “starting a business.” I was working at a LYS so teaching and designing seemed like a natural part of the job. When I officially launched The Crafty Jackalope, it was too late to start over with a business plan! That being said, I do write out yearly and monthly plans/goals for designing and financials.
http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/bandana-rocks
Do you have a mentor?
I do not have a mentor but I mentor other small businesses. The Crafty Jackalope was not my first business so I have a bit of experience and I help out where I can; I think giving back is so important!
Do you have a business model that you have emulated?
Not really. I try not to compare my style of designing or running a business to other designers. I think process can be tricky and very individual. It took me a long time to embrace my style of designing and being OK with how I get to the end result or run my company. Of course, I am always seeking inspiration on how to organize, or to run a business, and get social media and promotional strategies but I am careful to stay true to my style; I usually find this inspiration through reading books and through forums and blogs.
http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/portobello-cowl
Do you use a tech editor?
Nope. I do everything myself, from design, to knitting, to writing out/formatting the patterns, any graphics, schematics etc... this is an asset and a bit of a curse. I do however, have a fabulous friend that will edit my written content for major publications.
How do you maintain your life/work balance?
This is a hard one. When you own your own business, it is hard to shut off or end work at 5 PM like the rest of the world; there have been many times where I choose work/deigning/teaching over socializing with my friends. My husband is a good reminder that I need to take breaks or I need to stop working at 12 AM…I am passionate about what I do and as a designer, my brain never shuts off. Traveling is a great way to relax and get me out of the office…which is my home. Also, cooking is another way I stop “working;” it’s creative, I don’t follow recipes which is liberating and my husband is amazing to cook for, he likes everything!
How do you deal with criticism?
If you put yourself out there you have to be prepared for some criticism. Luckily, I do not get a lot but my heart sinks a bit when I do. In reality, the criticism is more helpful to improve than the praises; I take the criticism and use it as a tool to get better, become more of an expert and to expand on my business.
How long did it take for you to be able to support yourself?
After dabbling in-and-out of LYS and designing from 2009 – 2013, I officially launched The Crafty Jackalope in the beginning of 2014 independent of any other job.
What advice would you give someone who wants to pursue a career in knitting?
Pursuing a career in knitting is not the same as knitting for pleasure; 99% of what I knit is not just for fun or just because, it’s work. Having a knit career takes a lot of time and perseverance and because of the Internet, anyone can literally be a designer so it is up to you to go above and beyond to be recognized, to stand out, and to be able to make a living. If you have the passion, the time (whatever that means to you) then I would say ‘just go for it’ by testing the waters and start by posting your patterns to Ravelry, Craftsy, Etsy, Loveknitting and see if you, a) enjoy it and b) see what response you get. Don’t quit your day job until you put your designs out there and see how the market responds; you will know when the right moment is for you. It is a risk but I love what I do and ‘knock on wood’ I would never go back!
What’s next for you?
This year, 2017 is pressure packed! I am teaching knitting classes at the LYS and going into the Elementary schools, along with hosting private knit lessons around town. On top of the busy teaching schedule I am currently working on 3 books and 2 mini collections. I am also always developing new knit/crochet kits (yarn/pattern) which I feature on my blog and offer through my website. And, along with everything else, I am always finding new ways to develop, grow and expand The Crafty Jackalope. Phew, sounds like I need more hours in the day!
Otostop Yapan Üniversiteliyi Siktim
Selam arkadaşlar size 1-2 hafta önce başımdan geçen bir anımı anlatmak istiyorum,uzun boylu yakışıklı esmer bir erkeğim,hafta içi bir gün saat 4 civarı arabamla ofise dönüyordum üniversitelerin olduğu bölgeden geçerken gençlerin otostop yaptığını gördüm ,çoğu 2-3 kişiydi yada erkekti o yuzden yavaş yavaş geçiyordum durmayı düşünmedim,fakat 20 li yaşlarda bir kız benim arabamı gördüğünde yola doğru yaklaştı,önünde durdum merkeze gidiyorsanız gelebilirmiyim dedi olur atla dedim,ismini sordum cansu olduğunu söyledi,sizi beyefendi gördüm o yuzden binmek istedim dedi,sanırım lüks arabaları tercih ediyorlardı,ailesinin sex hikaye başka şehirde olduğunu okul için burda olduğunu söyledi,evi ofisime yakındı evine bırakabilirim dedim,üzerinde kot ve mont vardı 1.60 boylarında ince yapılı minyon bir kızdı,fakat yüzü güzeldi siyah saçlı beyaz tenliydi,yalnızmı yaşıyorsun dedim,hayır 3 kız arkadaş aynı evde kalıyoruz dedi.
Bende kendimden bahsettim,okul dışında neler yapıyorsun dışarı çıkıyormusun dedim,öğrenciyim gezmek maddiyatla ilgili pek dışarı çıkamıyorum,ailemin gönderdiği para kısıtlı dedi,istersen seni gezdirebilirim dedim,senin gibi karizmatik bir adamla gezmek isterim dedi,günlerden cumaydı istersen akşam çıkalım dedim ,olur dedi ,o zaman 8 de seni alırım dedim,telefonlarımızı aldık evine bıraktım,ofise geçtim kalan işlerimi halledip eve gittim,duş aldım güzel bir pantolon ceket gömlek kombinasyonu oluşturdum gayet şık görünüyordum.
Cansu’nun evinin önüne gittiğimde arayıp geldiğimi söyledim, Cansu evden çıkıyordu onu gördüğümde şok oldum,o gündüz bıraktığım kot mont giyen salaş kız gitmiş yerine siyah mini elbiseli ten rengi parlak çorabıyla siyah rugan topuklu ayakkabısyla tam bir afet gelmişti,küçük fahişe çok tatlı olmuştu,arabaya bindi yanağımdan öptü kırmızı ruju yanağıma çıkmıştı,havadan sudan sohbet ediyorduk benim gözüm bacaklarındaydı eteği götüne kadar çıkmıştı,benim yarrak zonklamaya başladı,nerdeyse direksiyona degecekti,küçük fahişe bunun farkındaydı dahada eğlenceli konuşmaya başladı,önce onu bir restorana götürdüm birşeyler yedik 3-4 duble rakı içtik cansu hafif çakır olmaya başlamıştı,konu sekse geldi 2 yıldır üniversitede hiç erkek arkadaşı olmadığını söyledi,lisede bir sevgilisi varmış 2 yıl görüşmüşler bekaratinide ona verdiğini söyledi,bu durumda cansuyu sadece 1 erkek sikmişti,doğrumu yalanmı olduğunu amının genişliğinden anlayabilirdim,eğer doğruysa benim 23 cm lik kobrayı almakta zorlanırdı,hadi birazda canlı müzik dinleyelim dedim ordan kalktık cluba geçtik,içkilerimizi içerken cansu kendinden geçmiş dans ediyordu tabi o dans ettikçe eteği sıyrılıyordu bir an kilodunu gördüm beyaz renk bir tanga giymişti.
Bir ara kulağımı eğilip bu gece seninle sex hikaye uyumak istiyorum dedi,sadece uyumakmı dedim,hayır koca yarrağınla sik beni dedi,nerden biliyorsun koca olduğunu dedim,önüne baksana sopa gibi dedi,ne zamandır sikişmiyorsun pantolonun yırtılacak dedi,daha fazla sabrım kalmamıştı hesabı isteyip mekandan ayrıldık,eve giderken elimi bacaklarını atıp okşamaya başladım,dahada ilerletip amını kilodu ve corabının üzerinden okşuyordum hafif hafif inlemeye başladı,arada elini yarrağıma atıp kafasını okşuyordu,bu şekilde eve gittik arabayı kapalı garaja çekip asansore bindik,asansorde göğüslerine yumuldum küçükcüktü beni çok tahrik etti,oda yarrağımı bir aşa bir yukarı sıvazlıyordu,eve girdik ayakkabılarını çıkarmak için domaldı belinden tutup yarrağımı götüne bastırdım,çok zevkliydi,hemen odaya geçtik,koltuğun üzerine oturttum cansuyu,önce dudaklarını emdim sonra elbisesini kafasından çıkarıp boynunu emmeye başladım,cansu kendinden geçmişti,sütyenini çıkarıp göğüslerini dillemeye başladım,kilodu ve kilotlu çorabı duruyordu,kilotlu çorabının amına denk gelen kısmını yırttım,kilodunu yana çektim bembeyaz 1 tane bile kıl olmayan küçücük amcığını dillemeye başladım,amı sırılsıklam olmuştu ne varsa emiyordum,cansu ağlar gibi inliyordu,3 yıldır yarrak yemedim.
Sik beni lütfen diyordu amını yaladıkdan sonra fermuarımı açıp yarrağımı dışarı çıkarttım,cansu yarrağımı görünce gözleri yerinden fırlayacak gibi oldu,bu ne ya hayvanmısın oğlum sen dedi,porno filimlerdeki gibi sikin var bunu banamı sokacaksın dedi,korkma canını yakmam dedim,agzına alıp sakso çekecekti fakat küçücük ağzına sığmıyordu,zar zor kafasını yalıyordu,yeter artık seni sikicem dedim,lütfen yavaş aşkım dedi,eski sevgiliminki küçücüktü dedi,bacaklarını omzuma alıp yavas yavas sokmaya başladım,gözlerinden yaş geliyordu,tamam yeter lütfen dedi,yetmez dedim sen beni fena azdırdın bugun ki mini elbisenle dedim, sex hikaye birden hepsini kokledim,cansunun çığlığı evi inletmişti,artık amı alışıyordu,15-20 dakika pompaladım,sonra ters çevirip domalttım birazda o şekilde siktim cansu bayılacak gibiyidi kendinden geçmişti,o gece onu sabah 4 e kadar siktim cansu kaç kez boşaldı ben kaç kez boşaldım hatırlamıyorum,götünden sikmek istedim vermedi,muhtemelen götü yırtılırdı,bir sure cansuyu siktim sonra arkadaşlarıyla tanıştırdı onlarıda siktim,öğrendi görüşmüyoruz artık gerçek bir sikici tarafından sikilmek isteyen kadınlar bana ulaşabilirsiniz,siz siz olun sikicinizi kız arkadaşlarınızla tanıştırmayın,bol sikişli günler dilerim.
Hand Knit OOTD
Fashion bloggers have their OOTD (outfit of the day), now that I'm in reorganization mode I'm finding hand knits which haven't been worn in a while. This is my hand knit OOTD. Here's a long bobbled cardigan I was inspired to wear recently out to lunch with a girlfriend. There isn't a pattern for this one. It's one of the many personal projects from before I started writing patterns. The pants are Hue faux leather leggings, the shirt is a basic white cotton and I wore a piece of jewellery I made myself.
If there had been any serious walking that day I would have substituted my black brogues for those high heeled ankle boots. I carried a black patent hand bag.
I need to read up on how those fashion blogs make their flat lay photos look so good. I ended up putting the focus on the sweater but I can see that did some odd things lighting wise to my black leather boots.
If there had been any serious walking that day I would have substituted my black brogues for those high heeled ankle boots. I carried a black patent hand bag.
I need to read up on how those fashion blogs make their flat lay photos look so good. I ended up putting the focus on the sweater but I can see that did some odd things lighting wise to my black leather boots.
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