Today's featured artist is Natalia from "LaceKnit." She specializes in hand knitted lace work, from simple yet elegant scarves and accessories to luxurious bridal shawls. I interviewed Natalia to learn more about her and her beautiful work.
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Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and what you sell in LaceKnit?
Well, I am originally from Russia. Growing up in Siberia I learned to knit at a young age, but it was only recently that I decided to turn my hobby into a small business - before I moved to the U.S. I was a Philosophy teacher! I have been obsessed with lace-knitting ever since I discovered the intricate designs and advanced techniques of Haapsalu and Orenburg. That is why my shop specializes in lace-knitted shawls and accessories based on these amazing knitting styles!
Were you always interested in knitting?
Yes, definitely. I practically grew up with knitting needles in my hands. All the women around me knew how to knit and crochet, but my mother, of course, was my teacher. Not only that, but my father used to spin most of the yarn that she would use and even did some knitting of his own! But only socks – I never saw him knit anything other than socks. As you can see, I really grew up with a knitting tradition.
What materials do you work with?
It is my desire to produce shawls and wraps of the highest quality. I, therefore, prefer to use yarns made only from natural fibers such as Merino, Mohair, Alpaca and Silk. I love Merino-Silk and Mohair-Silk blends – they give warm, soft, luxuriant results and feature heavily in my designs. For customers who are allergic to wool, there are many excellent alternatives such as Bamboo and even Milk!
Do you wear any of your own pieces?
Yes. I never buy knitted scarves, hats or gloves and I did knit a wonderfully warm sweater for myself last year which I often wear. I have been thinking to knit a nice shawl for myself for months now, but I just can’t seem to find the time to do so!
How did you get started selling on Etsy?
I was introduced to Etsy by my Sister-in-Law. After knitting a scarf for her one winter she insisted that I try selling my products online since I was making so many of them. (That scarf was about the 10th knitted item I had made for either her or my Mother-in-Law that year!) Anyway, it didn’t take much convincing – I think I had my shop open within a few days of ever hearing about Etsy.com!
Do you have any advice for people wanting to start selling their craft online?
I think that selling handmade items online takes a lot of patience, persistence, and determination. And, of course, giving great customer service is a must. But most importantly, you have to love what you are doing! When you really love making your products then others are going to love them too!
What do you do in your spare time?
Well, to be honest, I have many interests. I love to play the piano (I went to music school in USSR). I enjoy cooking and baking. I have a deep passion for Philosophy and I practice Meditation and Yoga daily. I also do some online gaming - I have been a fan of World of Warcraft for many years now and play almost every day. But since moving to my Husband’s hometown of Seattle, I have enjoyed hiking, camping and mountain biking with him around the Pacific NW most of all! It’s absolutely beautiful here!
Anything else you'd like to share?
Yes, I’d like to offer the following promotion to everyone who finds my shop through your blog: Get 10% off any item in my shop with coupon code: LACE10OFF
Please visit me at:
Etsy: www.laceknit.etsy.com
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