A year ago I went to a book signing – it was in the presence of my knitting hero – Debbie Bliss. Before the signing started she walked through the yarn shop and it was as if Madonna (of the knitting world) had walked by. Seriously, if you know nothing about knitting she is the Queen of British knitting. If you have ever wanted a friend of yours to make a sweet little beanie hat for your new-born baby, it is because you have spotted a Debbie Bliss pattern on another child.
If you have ever returned to knitting after a long absence, it is probably because you have seen a Debbie Bliss pattern and felt, actually I want to make that! All the most beautiful jumpers for little people in this country, are influenced by her use of colour and simplicity of design.
So back to the story, my friend J came with me to the book signing and said, ‘If you don’t tell her you are a crochet designer, I will and that will embarrass you.’ So completely against my character and better judgement I introduced myself to my hero, stuttered quite a lot and got chatting. Funny thing is she is the nicest, modest, encouraging person you could meet.
A few months later I sent Debbie a copy of an interview I did in Inside Crochet magazine, which talked about her influence on my work and British knitting. She replied and asked if I would like to design some animal inspired children’s hats for her Fall magazine. I literally jumped around the study with excitement. Then the reality kicked in. Oh my goodness what am I going to do!
So here you are – my designs in the Fall/Winter issue of Debbie Bliss magazine. Owl Hat and Mittens, Panda Hat and Mittens, Penguin hat and Scarf and Fox hat and mittens. I do hope you like them. Later this week I will talk about the inspiration and some of the process behind them. The photo-shoot taken on location in Poland is utterly beautiful. If you see a copy of the magazine in your newsagent or yarn store, do have a look and check out all the wonderful patterns inside. What can I say – a dream come true. An honour and a joy.
Oh Emma! Brilliant!! I’m so pleased for you … and I must say that I love these new designs to pieces!!
Ta ta now, I must go brag about you on Facebook and Ravelry!
Well Emma, what can I say. These designs are absolutely Gorgeous with a capital G. What a dream come true. I think the fox hat is my favourite – but then again, I love the owl too. Hopefully this lead lead onto more designing for the goddess of the knitting world. I’m sooooo pleased for you.
I’m also in the process of designing hats for a fun knitted hats book and you’ve set the bar so high with these fab hats that I’m wondering (nervously) if I can rise to the challenge. I hope so. Tracey is designing 8 hats for the book too, so we certainly have our work cut out.
I’m looking forward to your next designs, Lynne
Wow Emma – how cooool! Love all the hats and accessories…they look so much fun…and very professional! The photos are amazing too. Congratulations..hope you have some more exciting dreams to come true!
Ali x
This is exactly what you deserve, I am so pleased – and the hats look amazing. Well done xxxx
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Just one word – stunning.
Enjoy.
Love Jude
I presume you have seen this little mention
http://www.debbieblissonline.com/Magazine.asp
but just in case you haven’t!
Jude
I am so vain when it comes to my friends! Like to make sure that there is sufficient boasting online!
Hi Emma, I’ve just popped over from Tracey’s blog. I love your deisgns – many congratulations on having them published in such a prestigious publication!! Regards, Anne
Hello Emma! I’ve just stumbled on your blog – had no idea that you were a fellow blogger and yarn addict and you live just on the next road! How lovely to see your work and congratulations on your successes! Hopefully it won’t be too long before we meet again even if just for a quick hello in the street like last time! All the best, Sue
Hi Emma, just seen this AMAZING NEWS! Can’t wait to see the magazine! x