Interview: Melynda of French Press Knits & Giveaway

Today we have a very special guest with us!
Fabulous knitter, pattern designer and new Mom - Melynda of French Press Knits!

She has the most amazing patterns on her website and as well at her Etsy shop.  So make sure to stop by and see her!


1.  Tell us a bit about yourself.

Well, the biggest thing in my life right now is my new daughter.  I am loving every bit of motherhood- it is such a precious gift.  My husband and I have been married for over five years now.  Since starting FPK he has become a knitter too!  I've always loved creating things and I love to share this passion on my blog and through my designs.


2.  How long have you been knitting?  Do you also do any other sort of crafting? (ie. embroidery, sewing, crochet, tatting etc)

I've been sewing since I was young, and for many years that was my main craft.  Although I do still sew occasionally, knitting is my main craft love these days.  I'm not sure exactly when I learned to knit, but I think it was some time in high school, but I really only learned the knit stitch at that point.  When I became an aunt I sat down with some books and taught myself more about knitting- that was about 5 years ago.

3.  What was your inspiration for your slipper pattern? 
Believe it or not, just a pair of ballet flats that I owned.  I knew there were many other felted slipper patterns out there, but I wanted a cute and stylish pair.  After much trial and error (and a whole lot of wasted yarn- you can't get felted stuff back!) the French Press Felted Slippers were born.


4.  Of all the yarns you've used - what is your favorite and why?

Oooo... how to decide between all the lovely fibers out there?  I guess it depends on my mood- right now I am using fingering weight Shepherd's Wool for some colorwork and I find it totally satisfying. But, my favorite treat is working with any sort of Plucky yarn.  The colorways, the feel of the luxury yarn between my fingers- can't get enough of it.


5.  What is your must have knitting accessory?

Funny you should ask, I'm probably one of the biggest suckers for knitting accessories. If I'm really taken by something, I'll usually post about it on my blog.  Let's do top three- my knit kit (it goes everywhere with me), my personalized FPK knitters ruler, and my chubby blue bird stitch markers.


6.  What do you have on your needles right now?

Knitting up prototypes for a few new designs. Colorwork for baby- not sure if knitting gets more satisfying than this!

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In honor of Melynda's visit today, I'm going to giveaway a copy of her slipper pattern to one lucky person!!

Giveaway ends on Saturday April 9th, 2011 at Midnight EST
Winner will be announced on Sunday April 10th, 2011
Open Internationally

Please leave a comment and tell us what colour you would make your slippers!
Don't forget to leave your email address! (example - aislynnt (at) gmail dot com)

For an extra entry into the giveaway - tweet, blog etc (and leave a link please)