KnitVaana
Knitvana is a blend word - “knit” or to “come together”, and “nirvana” - a path that leads you to peace and happiness. Through knitting I have found a place where my creative energy can grow and thrive. I wake up each day excited to take on new projects with gusto. But life, as we know, has its ups and downs -- so I look to knitting for a way to not only harness my spirit for innovation - but to help pacify me when challenges come my way. Knitting is soothing, meditative, therapeutic, helps you unwind and become more connected with the self. I hope to share not only this passion with others, but this path to tranquility, and light.
Crafting and creating has always been an intrinsic part of who I am.
I have been knitting, sewing, crocheting and creating for most of my life but mostly as a hobby. My love for the crafts came naturally to me -- my mother and grandmother also embraced them with as much fervor and drive as I have. I was web-designing as a freelancer and crocheting doilies and working on some cross-stitch projects when I found the amazing community that is Ravelry and instantly became a member -- even though the site was in the beta-test stage. My first design was the Leaf Cradling Cables scarf pattern which evolved both with inspiration of nature and just my sheer love of knitting cables and leaves. In 2008, I finally took the plunge and started publishing my designs I had been cradling in my mind for decades. Very soon knitting magazines both in print and online started publishing my patterns. This was very exciting! When Etsy launched it gave me a platform for me to finally sell some of my OOAK designs! I feel incredibly lucky to be able to devote my time to designing patterns for beginning to advanced knitters.
In terms of how and where I get my inspiration- I am lucky enough to be able to travel around the world and feel inspired and humbled by the unbelievable beauty I see around me -- in nature, in cities -- in the places that are the perfect juxtaposition between urban and rural life. The vibrant colors and textures that I see in nature and in art that people create help inspire my own creativity with knitting. I am driven by designs that embrace sustainability and don't leave a large carbon footprint on our environment. Therefore, materials used in my works can be used recycled or reused. I strive to also convey a message through my pieces that speak to simplicity and the circle of life.
