As we all prepare for the launch of the holiday season, I know I tend to take inventory of the reasons to be thankful. I get the most joy when I give, so naturally while in this train of thought Linda Blakely the talent behind ConnieCaps came to mind. I reached out and she agreed to be featured. So sit back and get to know this wonderful woman.
Hi Linda, I think you know I adore you and all that you do. I am a big fan on instagram and Love your work. When I see knitters of your caliber I think “dang, she must have learn to knit from the womb” so instead of guessing, I will simply ask. How long have you been knitting and who taught you?
I started knitting in my early twenties and I’m in my mid-fifties now, so a long time. But I took a long hiatus in-between because I lost interest. During that hiatus I actually took up quilting. My mom taught me how to knit, and I taught her how to quilt. Now my quilting is on hiatus 🙂Â
Ah so you are a knitting Veteran. Â What is your favorite yarn type and weight?
I’m a sucker for luxury yarns, but I don’t indulge too often. One day I hope to knit with some Qiviut (yarn made from Musk Ox). I prefer DK and worsted weight yarns. I have a short attention span and the heavier weights work up quicker than the other weights. I like projects like hats, cowls and mitts that knit up fast!
I can definitely relate with working on projects that knit up quickly. I am the CEO of #teamlazy LOL! Do you have a favorite needle? Straight vs. Circulars?
When knitting hats I use 16″ circular needles. The ones I use have curved tips. I find them more comfortable to use. It’s easier on my hands and wrists.
A curved tip, that sounds interesting. As you know I found you via Instagram as ConnieCaps. I love what you do. Your stitches appear to be perfect! Tell me and my readers about Connie Caps and how that started?
My husband and I used to own a wine store. In 2007 a large wine retailer opened up just around the corner from us and put us out of business practically overnight. Think “You’ve Got Mail”, but with wine instead of books, plus I didn’t fall in love with our competitor. I found myself with a lot of time on my hands and spent a good amount of time on the internet. One of my favorite sites was Regretsy.com (no longer running). April Winchell, who ran the site, called for a volunteer to knit some hats for a charity. I chimed in and volunteered. I found it so rewarding and fulfilling I knew it was something I wanted to do full-time. So ConnieCaps, Inc was born! My mother passed away from cancer, so I named my charity for her.Â
What an angel you are, I have seen pics you have shared with your happy recipients. God Bless you Linda! Is there anything else you would like to share with me and my fiber friends?
As well as making hats for cancer patients, I also design knit patterns. 100% of the proceeds from the sale of my patterns goes to ConnieCaps. The patterns can be seen here:Â http://www.ravelry.com/designers/linda-blakely
I knew that, but I am happy you decided to share..your work is amazing as well as your designs. Thanks for taking the time to chat with me Linda.
Here is a snapshot of Linda’s designs..please go check them out and get a pattern while you are there. The proceeds help her bless someone suffering from Cancer.
Here is a link to her Instagram page if you want to see more of her work.
Knit on my fiber friends, knit on….
~GG