We’re getting to know our gang of makers a little more by sharing your stories and general awesomeness in our Meet the Maker series. This month, we chat with Abby Keep – a 20 year old knitter from Melbourne, Australia.

Tell us a bit about yourself…

I am 20 years old and I live in Melbourne, Australia. I am currently studying Textile Design, though eventually want to direction myself towards Art Therapy. I’m a reader, knitter and maybe also a 70 year old stuck in a young persons shell!

What are three random facts about yourself that most people wouldn’t know?

I am obsessed with fantasy novels; I can’t go to a shopping centre for more than 10 minutes; I’m usually reading and knitting at the same time (I usually keep that to when I’m at home though).

Who taught you how to knit?

Mum.

How does knitting help you?

I knit for many reasons. I love the outcome of knitting.. the tactical journey I am taken on and the constant movement of my hands though it is my therapy too. Knitting is the main practice that has helped me through some tough times in the past couple of years and this realisation was completely unintentional. The space I get teleported into is one of calm and solitude and I feel instantly at peace. It is beautiful to think that for even a small time you and your project are the only thing in the world and nothing matters.

Do you remember what your first finished knit was?

A stripy scarf with acrylic wool when I was about 7 years old? It was so wonky and had so many holes in it. Should’ve kept it for the archives but I’m sure mum ‘accidentally’ binned it.

What’s on your knitting wishlist?

To live on a small property, and spin and dye the yarn that my animals produce. Im very passionate about supporting ethical and sustainable practices and knowing where my materials come from.

What’s your favourite stitch and why?

I’d have to say Purl stitch. It is so clean and classic I never get sick of it although I love working in cable just because it’s so fun and a really nice brain exercise and meditation.

If you’re not knitting, what are you doing instead?

Reading or at the Library.

What’s your top knitting tip?

Slip the first stitch Purl wise so that your seams connect seamlessly when sewing the garment together.

What’s your favourite place to knit?

In a huge comfy chair or in a park, preferably with a tea by my side or a podcast in my ears.

What’s your favourite WATG piece?

The Full Moon Jumper.

What’s your favourite yarn to work with and why?

I love working with Alpaca though being from Australia where hand spun Sheep is a lot more common and plentiful I generally use this and I love it as its a real sensory experience.

Flash Round:

• Knit or crochet? Knit

• Coffee or tea? Coffee

• Netflix or Audiobooks? Netflix

• Knit or Purl? Purl

• Sheep or Alpaca? Alpaca

• Jumpers or Cardigans? Jumpers

• Chunky or Fine? Fine

• Neutrals or Bolds? Neutrals

• Knit for yourself or others? 80% Others, 20% Me

• Summer or Winter? Winter

 

Want the chance to be featured in our Meet the Maker series? Simply use the hashtag #woolandthegang when you post pics of your WATG knits and we’ll be in touch