Etsy Artist Feature: 99Lollipop

Today's feature is of one of my Etsyknitters Team members, a fantastic knitter who is always trying to learn as much as she can about improving her shop and her trade, read on to find out more about this fantastic woman! Here is my interview with 99Lollipop:

How did you first learn to knit?

I was first shown how to knit when I was about 7, but couldn't get the gist of it. I kept losing stitches and quickly lost interest. I think part of the problem was that the yarn was horrible, the needles were super large and my teacher was less than patient! However, I have been crocheting for about 20 years and for many of them wished I had persevered with the knitting. There's something so soothing and meditative about the click of two needles that has always called me. It's just a different mood and also compliments crocheting quite nicely. Well, a couple of years ago, while trying to relieve the stress of studying for my psychology state board exams, I took up knitting. Funny thing is I took one class out of a 4 class series at a community college and then just taught myself with tons of questions to a friend of mine who walked me through the really confusing parts. All the sudden, knitting became like breathing to me. I found it when the time was right, I guess.

What is your favorite yarn to knit with?

I love to work with natural fiber and my absolute favorite is Alpaca. It's just so soft and knits up like a dream. Ive also gotten quite fond of bamboo as well. It feels and handles like strong silk. And I really love the fact that it comes from such a rambunctious plant!

What are some of your favorite projects or techniques to knit?

My favorite thing is to do custom work because it feels like such an honor to help bring to life someone's idea, longing and desire. I love to feel the yarn and needles in my hands and just put my passion into it. I also love to knit things for new babies because that stuff becomes extra precious (just think of your first blankie). I love thinking about how my loving work is going to help welcome a new being into this life.
In terms of knitting for myself, which I don't often get around to doing, I've recently really gotten obcessed with knitting capes in all types of styles and yarn varieties.
In terms of techniques, I don't have a favorite. If Im not using a pattern, I love to hold the yarn and let it guide me into its creation. I have made some of my best items that way.