Maker Spotlight: Calder Knits

This month we're chatting to Sue from Calder Knits and finding out about her love of knitting.  We've loved seeing her work and it's even encouraged us to pick up some of our UFOs (not that we have loads...honest!) and get knitting!

When did you start your craft?
My Grandma taught me to knit back in 1972, which is more years ago than I care to think about.  As a child it was something I did to be closer to her, but I didn’t find my own knitting voice until 10 years later. 

What do you like best about it?
Put simply, I love wool and anything woolly, I’m drawn to texture and colour.  I’m always on the lookout for new and exciting wool, letting it inspire me to make my next creation.  It’s very often the case that I’m guided by a particular colour or texture as to what I make next.

Do you have a favourite thing to knit?
I have a penchant for knitting hats.  I often make up the pattern as I go along, it brings out my creativity.

Why is crafting important to you?
As I’ve gotten older, I’ve felt more connected to my craft.  I’m now confident enough in myself and my abilities as a knitter to push myself, which is why I started Calder Knits. Knitting is also great for my wellbeing as the act itself really relaxes me.   

What are your preferred products to use?
I love natural wools and have a soft spot for merino, it’s lovely to work with. I travel quite a bit so I’m always on the lookout as new places often mean new and exciting yarn.

Do you have any advice for anyone wanting to take up your craft?
Like starting anything new it’s daunting and the initial results may not seem worth the effort.  My biggest piece of advice is to persevere until things start to gel and soon you will find those stitches becoming second nature.  Ask your yarn store for advice too, knitters are a friendly bunch and only too willing to help.

What’s your favourite thing about World of Wool?
I am lucky enough to have World of Wool on my doorstep and can easily pop over if I need wool for a project. I love the choice of wool and colours that are on offer, and the staff are super friendly.

I got into test knitting a few years ago opening up opportunities for me to help designers launch new patterns.  I went on to take a course in Technical Editing, and now proofread patterns before they’re put out for testing. 

It’s taken a while and a lot of effort, but I now have clients all over the world and I’m working on great projects with fantastic designers.  What started as a side-hustle has really taken off. I knew this line of work is what I wanted (or should that be needed) to do, so after 24 years of corporate life I took early retirement and set up Calder Knits, turning my hobby into my job and I haven’t look back.

You can find Sue and Calder Knits on Facebook and Instagram.
You can also find the yarns that feature in her images here and here.