Test Knitter of the Month - May

With COVID-19, keeping up with monthly test knitter of the month has been hard as everyone is feeling the devastation of a global pandemic and this is obviously the last thing on everyone’s mind. As the world starts to open up a little by little, I’ll start a little at a time to get back to it.

Each month I’ll like to feature a test knitter from one of my designs.

My hope for a part of this blog is to feature the knitters who spend their time helping me execute a hand knitting pattern. Test knitting, especially garments, are a critical part of the design process and I wouldn’t be able to do it without their valuable feedback.

It’s been important for me to connect with knitters, and people in general, on a human level. My hope is that these introductions will help us connect to others that are more than what we see on the surface.

Test Knitter of the Month - May Feature: Christina

How do you identify?

My pronouns are she/her. I’m bi-racial Filipina and white. 

How many years have you been knitting? What’s your knitting origin story?

My mom taught me to crochet and knit when I was 10. I started off making pot holders and blankets for my Barbies. Knitting and crocheting was something I would pick up and put down through my teens. I started to get more serious about crafting after graduating college. My mom and I started frequenting the local yarn shop and were introduced to new yarns and techniques. We would bounce ideas off each other and encourage one another to try something new. We don’t live in the same city anymore but my mom and I still share our knitting journey virtually. I learned about the knitting community on Instagram about 3 years ago, and it as changed my life. I was inspired to start dyeing my own yarn. I’ve connected with so many amazing people through yarn, and I’m so grateful for this community. 

Which pattern did you test knit? What size, if garment, and yarns did you use?

I test knit the Eleven Twelve Sweater size 6. I used my hand dyed yarns, Teal Torch Knits. Main color is Sinking in My Soul and contrast color A Sunday Kind of Love. 

What is your favorite thing about test knitting or why do you test knit?

I love getting a behind the scenes look at the design process. 

What other making superpowers do you have?

I also crochet, mostly accessories. I love to bake when I have the time. 

Where can readers find your makes?

I post the majority of my makes on Instagram @TealTorchKnits.

What other aspects of life are you passionate about besides making?

Making is my hobby but also my business. I started hand dyeing yarn 2 years ago just for fun but I was hooked after the first skein. I started brainstorming ideas and decided to make this a business. I’m very passionate about dyeing yarn, it’s one of the best creative outlets. I love playing with color, from bright neons to calm neutrals. Often I say to my family I can’t believe that this is my “job” because it doesn’t feel like any job I’ve ever held. I truly love what I do!