FEATURED ARTIST

We are featuring a fiber artist. Come and meet


Here is our interview with the artist, Diane:

Briefly describe what you make?

Figuratively? I make people laugh (I hope). Literally, I crochet all sorts of items- hats, scarves, mug cozies, ipod cases, etc, etc. I love yarn, bright colors, and have a short attention span. So crochet ticked all the boxes.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

As stated, I love yarn. So in addition to crochet I also knit. However I like calling myself a hooker which is why crochet took the top spot. Aside from crochet I very lightly dabble in photography and painting.

How long have you been creating craft?

I'm not what you would consider a crafty person. For example, I buy all the stuff to make an awesome scrapbook of a summer vacation and then it just sits there gathering dust. That being said, I enjoy making things. The universe says you can't make stuff. It all exists and we just manipulate the atoms. But when I take a ball of yarn and make it into something you can wear or use, well, it's as close to being a god as I'm ever going to get.

How did you get started?

A neighbor taught me to knit when I was about 10. I thought it was cool that I could carry around sharp, pointy sticks. I learned to crochet a little over a year ago. From the moment I learned I was hooked (pun intended).

Where does the name of your shop come from?

When I was learning to crochet I had a day job I dreaded. By dread I mean every fiber of my being turned to stone the moment I pulled into the parking lot of my office. I could barely get down the side walk. It was like walking through peanut butter to force myself to show up. Crochet was/is a stress relief and it was not work. It was pure pleasure. So my shop is KnotWork, meaning no matter how busy I get or how frustrating it can be, it is still not work to me in the literal sense.

What would you most want people to know about your work?

For those who crochet or knit you understand the time it takes. The items may seem costly to many because our society simply doesn't value yarn. And while our materials may cost less than say the silver wire to wrap around a lovely bead- it is our time and expertise you are paying for. So many people think they can knit or crochet. And yes, many people can with lots of practice. But we've already practiced and perfected and we sat there for three hours making that hat. Please remember that when you're distracted by those shiny beads at the table next to ours at a craft show. :)

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

Decide whether this is simply an art/hobby or a business. If it's a business then you should keep trying new things and see what sells. If it's a hobby, or your art, keep trying new things if you want to be challenged. But don't stubbornly stick to what you like and wonder why no one else wants to buy it. However, always make sure that your personality comes through in your work as that is what makes you truly unique.

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Great interview! And some great items just in time for holiday shopping! Go and check out Diane's shop. Then come on back and leave a comment!