Each new pattern release from Kalurah Hudson brings a wave of “oohing and awwing” around the KP office. For almost 10 years now, we’ve been happily collaborating with her, being inspired by her gorgeous pattern designs, and things aren’t slowing down anytime soon.

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English or Continental? Continental

Cardigan or Pullover? To make: Pullover To wear: Cardigan

Cables or Lace? Cables

DPNs or Magic Loop? Magic Loop

Yarn: Solid or Variegated? Tonal!

Socks: Toe Up or Top Down? Toe Up

Needles: Wood or Metal? Wood

Wool, Cotton, Acrylic, Alpaca, Cashmere, or Silk? Superwash Wool

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What was your first design, and how do you feel about it now?

My first design was a crochet pattern, called “Romantic Fingerless Gloves”. I placed the pattern on Etsy and when my first sale came in, I was so excited and completely blown away that someone was going to be creating something from MY instructions. It was such a humbling experience.

What is your favorite design of yours with Knit Picks, either with IDP or in a collection? Why?

Autumn Dreamer is my favorite and proudest design. I created the cable pattern myself. It was the first time I didn’t rely on a stitch book. I also love the unique 5-point shape and it highlights the rustic quality of Wool of the Andes really well.

What is your favorite current Knit Picks yarn? Why?

Stroll Tonal is my current obsession. I love shawls and socks and it’s perfect for both. It’s super soft, washable and durable. The colorways are beautiful on their own and they also play well with each other.

When/how/why did you first learn to knit/crochet?

I first learned to crochet from my mother-in-law in 2006. She would always share with me the afghans that she made and I loved sitting with her as she stared at the stitches and ran her fingers over them lovingly, thinking back to the time when she created them. I asked her to show me some stitches and she sat alongside me with yarn and a hook. She was so patient with me. I soaked it all in. She was later diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and I look back on all those moments with so much love. I will always cherish them.

When/how/why did you first start designing?

In 2008, when my kiddos were 3, 5 and 7, I decided I needed a hobby that would keep me somewhat sane while I stayed at home with them. I decided that I wanted to add knitting versions of all of my crochet patterns and it just took off from there. It quickly grew into a means of helping support my family. When I saw that knitters and crocheters were responding so positively to my designs, I made the decision to devote myself to it full-time. And I’ve never been so happy in a career in my whole life. I’m always home for my kids and husband, I set my own hours and I absolutely LOVE what I do, and I get to do it every day!

What does your stash look like? (I know, this is a personal one!)

My stash is literally all over my house. In wire baskets, 2 large 8-cubby storage units and a huge handmade wall cabinet that my dad made me. I will spare you all the photo documentation.

What is your favorite thing to knit/crochet? Why?

Socks are my current favorite. They knit up quickly and are the perfect go-to gift for anyone. Who doesn’t love socks!?

What is your favorite thing to design? Why?

Shawls are my favorite thing to design. They’re so versatile. There’s a multitude of different shapes and construction methods, it’s mind blowing. You can also feature an array of stitch patterns. Their versatility also spans every season.

Your biggest yarn/knitting/crochet-related pet peeve?

Knots in my skein and yarn vomit!!! (dun, dun, dunnn) That’s why I always cake my yarn before using, so I already know what surprises are lurking inside.

What do you wish you had known when you first started knitting/crocheting?

I wish someone had told me that the loops that rested on the needle were considered a row. It seems so obvious now after almost 10 years of knitting. But in the beginning, I would count my rows when following a pattern and would get so confused and frustrated that my work didn’t match…because I wasn’t including the loops on my needle.

What do you hope to design in the future or where do you want to go with your designs?

I want to design more sweaters. I’ve only designed ONE. All that math and sizing has intimidated me for a long time but I’m finally ready to take the plunge!

Make up your own question!

What famous person have I made something for? I made a green Mohair pair of my crochet Grunge Gloves for Courtney Love in 2008.

Watch for more KP patterns from Kalurah Hudson soon and be sure to visit her site:

http://whiletheyplaydesigns.com/