Knitware Extraordinaire
Hi, welcome to my little corner of the internet! My name is Sheila. I am a painter with a degree is in two-dimensional design. I have found, as someone who has been crocheting and knitting for nearly 20 years, that clothing is just another canvas on which to express myself. I feel that my different background gives me a unique perspective on knitting and crocheting. In my patterns, I always endeavor to contribute something new to the fiber community — something that hasn’t been seen before. My work combines visual art with customized, well-fitting designs made just for your body.
Early on my fiber arts journey, I learned that I always had to customize any pattern I was following because I am very short with atypical proportions. This led to creating my own patterns so my work would actually fit me. I always strive to make my designs easy to customize fit those of us with atypical body types.
The most important work I’m doing right now is an innovative design style I’m calling Fluid Sizing. At first, I developed the Fluid Sizing model because I wanted my work to be more trans-inclusive; I wanted everyone that wanted them to be able to access my patterns. What I came to find out was that there were lots of cis gender bodies being excluded in standard-sized patterns as well, especially plus sized knitters. I have been able to help many people knit a garment that fit them how they wanted for the first time ever. That’s what it’s all about for me.
A Fluid Sizing pattern will do all the customization work for the knitter; all they need do is input their measurements, desired fit specifications, and gauge information and my customization algorithm will generate a unique pattern for the knitter. I don’t believe we should be constrained by conventional sizing in patterns anymore. Everyone deserves to make beautiful things that fit them perfectly.
On a more personal level, I’m someone who appreciates the warm things in life – a well knit sweater, a cup of chai, a furry friend to snuggle up with, and delicious food. I live in the Rocky Mountains, and you may notice their influence in my work. I am a mom to three amazing kids who have more strength than anyone I’ve ever known. They are always a source of inspiration to me. I am also blessed to have found a true life partner. He makes me laugh, he holds me up when I’m tired, and he has endured the storms with me. You may notice his name as co-author of my Fluid Sizing designs. He is the spreadsheet king who turns my scribbled formulas into functional algorithms fit for the public.
