Podcasts about power purls podcast

This is the last official episode of Power Purls Podcast! All the past juicy episodes will be right here in the player list for your listening pleasure. No need to find a new feed. Just keep on truckin' with me every Thursday morning. Now (drumroll please), let me introduce the NEW Craft Your Confidence Podcast!  If making is your passion and self-improvement is your jam, and you want more self-confidence and less overwhelm, then you are in the right place. If you seek a solution to finally connect the dots from your passion for creativity and living an authentic bigger life, then join me every week to follow your North Star and Craft Your Confidence!

This week, Felicia is joined by Kara Gott Warner and Stephanie Palmer of The Knitter's Planner. Kara has been on our show not once, but twice before, as she is the former editor of Creative Knitting Magazine and is now the host of the Power Purls Podcast. She is also a coach for creative women and entrepreneurs and is now the editor of The Knitter's Planner. If you want to listen to Kara's previous episodes with us they are Episode 24 and  Episode 50. We are also joined by Stephanie who is the creator and publisher of The Knitter's Planner. Please join us this week and get ready to nerd out about planning and time management!   "...we live in a hybrid time... we are in between two worlds in a sense... I do love my digital planners... but I think that there is just no replacement for putting a pen to paper... there's something meditative about it that you don't get with digital planning and there's a peaceful calming portion and there's a different level of commitment when you're thinking of your own goals and how you're structuring your time with pen to paper... that I just don't think digital can replace." - Stephanie Palmer on analog planners in a digital age   In this episode, we talk about: 1:20 Stephanie and Kara introduce themselves to the listeners 4:12 Felicia asks Stephanie why she decided to first make The Quilter's Planner 5:40 How is The Knitter's Planner different from other planners? 9:03 Sunday-Starter vs Monday-Starter: the customization options in The Knitter's Planner 13:24 Discussing how to merge a digital and analog planning systems 17:05 How using a planner can make a difference for fibre artists who want to create more 22:34 Chatting about the fear of "ruining" a beautiful planner 24:28 Discussing everyones personal workflow around their planner 29:50 How to plan around the holiday season 33:06 Tips for people who are not planners, but want to become one 35:43 Where people can find The Knitter's Planner 37:22 Felicia's Final Notes and Giveaway!   Here's Where You Can Find The Knitter's Planner: Website: www.knittersplanner.com Instagram: @theknittersplanner Facebook: www.facebook.com/KnittersPlanner   Enter the Giveaway to win a Free Knitter's Planner: Stephanie and Kara are giving one of our lucky listeners the chance to win a free custom Knitter's Planner! This is a giveaway you certainly don't want to miss! Click here to enter the giveaway »   Thanks for Listening! Thank you so much for joining us this episode! If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with your fellow fibre art friends. And if you like what we're doing here, please leave a rating and review on iTunes for the show. We read each and every email and bit of feedback, whether it's on Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook, so we welcome your comments. Thank you all so much for your continued support of our show! Until next time, enjoy colour!   Music Credits: Playbook of Happiness – by RimskyMusic Click to subscribe on iTunes Subscribe on Stitcher Radio Subscribe on Spotify

Working with a coach is an investment we may think of as an "expense" rather than an "investment" in ourselves. When we see the value of working with a coach and how it helps us to uplevel every area of our life, then we'll see the magic happen. The inspiration behind today's episode is my own coaching experience with Pat Flynn, host of Ask Pat and Smart Passive Income podcasts. I'm seriously a fan girl. Just sayin.' You'll hear me get pretty transparent about my struggles with Power Purls Podcast, and how I asked him for help. Let's just say, his advice was truly mind-blowing and a total game-changer. Check out my commentary about my session with Pat in this episode of Power Purls Podcast.

Power Purls Podcast is back! Bridging the worlds of craft and life, Kara Gott Warner reminds us of the depth in the Power Purls name. It’s more than just knitting – this is confidence-building. This is intuition. This is learning. And it starts right where you are.

How you celebrate this little powerful piece of knitted fabric -- the knitted swatch? We use it in so many ways: as a blueprint to create a new design, bring together community, learn new stitches, and lovingly donate them. In this episode, I share ways to empower yourself and others through the 6 x 6 stitch block and how you can create your own swatch celebration movement in your shop, online, or in your local community. Let's KNIT TOGETHER!   Join the fun on Facebook Live Wednesdays! This week ... - Learn how to get arty with your swatches! - Resources for donating your stitch blocks - Tips for starting your own swatch celebration in your local area or online - Get people clicking those needles. Create a community - KNIT TOGETHER -Meet my son London for yarn crafting for kids on fall break! (He will make you laugh!)   Can't make it live? Check out the video archives here: http://www.PowerPurlsPodcast.com/VideoArchives Get my FREE 5-step recipe to tap into your skills and talents to finally start a purpose-driven creative business! Download the audio training now: http://www.KaraGottWarner.com/SecretSauce

In this episode, discover what it takes to land yourself a spot as a guest on a podcast. Kara shares a step-by-step system to pitch yourself, how to communicate with a podcast host, and how to build authentic relationships that go beyond the mic to help promote your yarn shop and online creative business. You'll learn how to identify podcasts that align with your brand, and the basic framework to launch a podcast tour, and how to ask your network of friends, family, email subscribers to be on your "Tour Team" to help get the word out. Want to get a free mini business coaching session with Kara? Sign up at http://www.KaraGottWarner.com/StrategySession You can support Power Purls Podcast and receive subscriber-only content at http://www.Patreon.com/KaraGottWarner   

This episode answers a question posed by listener Cynthia who asks: How can I learn more about those who use yarn crafts beyond selling patterns-- the networking, other income streams, teaching, etc. Kara answers with 10 ways to blend your skills and passion to start a business to serve those in the yarn crafting space. You can support Power Purls Podcast and receive subscriber-only content at http://www.Patreon.com/KaraGottWarner 

Copy scares people! You might fear that what you write will come off as too pressure-y or sales-y. Both of which are mindsets you have to let go of to discover online marketing success. You are providing a solution for someone -- it’s your responsibility to write copy that will excite your peeps to take action! Make it personal, creative, and authentic just like you! You can support Power Purls Podcast and receive subscriber-only content at http://www.Patreon.com/KaraGottWarner  

Learn why it could be a mistake to do all of your own sample making and why hiring the right team of test knitters and crocheters, sample makers and tech editors will help you keep the passion in your knitting and crochet so you can knit and Netflix after you start a creative business!   You can support Power Purls Podcast and receive subscriber-only content at http://www.Patreon.com/KaraGottWarner    Want to make knitted shawls YOUR way? Want to become a more intuitive knitter? There's a course for that!  In 5 video lessons we start with the basics, and walk through the steps to customize your own shawl, through a series of video instruction, templates, charts and stitch patterns to enhance your shawl-making know-how! In just 5 lessons, this course will teach you how to become a more intuitive shawl-maker and trust what's on your knitting needles to you walk away with the confidence that YOU CAN customize and create shawls your way! Learn more: https://bit.ly/2uy5Ezx         

Learn 5 amazing ninja tips to eliminate the "fly by the seat of your pants" approach to creating last-minute content for your creative business. Check out this must-listen-to episode if you struggle with staying consistent. Want to get a free mini business coaching session with Kara? Sign up at http://www.KaraGottWarner.com/StrategySession You can support Power Purls Podcast and receive subscriber-only content at http://www.Patreon.com/KaraGottWarner  

How do you know if your idea is viable? If you have an existing yarn crafting business, own a yarn shop, or you're a budding designer, this is a must-listen-to episode! If you struggle with confidence in an idea, and you're not sure if anyone will want your stuff, this episode explores 6 tips to gain confidence, and why being a perfectionist is really fear in disguise! Want to get a free on-air mini coaching session with Kara? Send an email to: coachme@karagottwarner.com explaining why you would be a good candidate for a chance to get coached on an episode of Power Purls Podcast! Click HERE to become a patron of Power Purls Podcast and let's keep this wonderful garden growing!

Learn ways to use your car like a mobile university and maximize your time to make it more productive by listening to educational podcasts and audio books, and even take it a step further to verbally record a business plan wearing your headset! If you want to use your time wisely, you can treat your car like a learning machine! Want to get a free on-air mini coaching session with Kara? Send an email to: coachme@karagottwarner.com explaining why you would be a good candidate for a chance to get coached on an episode of Power Purls Podcast! Click HERE to become a patron of Power Purls Podcast and let's keep this wonderful garden growing!

I answer the BURNING QUESTION I get asked all the time: Is my creative business idea viable? I'll also explain how to create a content calendar like a BOSS and why this is your SECRET WEAPON for success in a fiber-loving business! Watch Power Purls UNPLUGGED video live each week! Sign up to get notified: www.PowerPurlsPodcast.com/LiveVideo Want to keep the Power Purls garden growing? Support the show! www.Patreon.com/KaraGottWarner

Kara welcomes Tabetha Hedrick, Creative Director of SweetGeorgia Yarns as her new co-host of Power Purls Podcast. In this episode they dive into 8 strategies for setting the stage to master your mindset, and why it's crucial to surround yourself with uplifters and how to turn guilt into gratitude.

Welcome to a new era of Power Purls Podcast in 2018! Discover what's in store in this now weekly podcast and learn about topics to help you start and ROCK your fiber-loving crafty-preneur business, and life centered around developing creative confidence, intuition and wisdom through concious crafting!

Power Purls Podcast is now a live weekly video show! Join Kara Gott Warner on the Power Purls Facebook Page each week to watch live and interact with the week's featured guest. Click here to follow Power Purls on Facebook, and get a reminder when Kara goes live every week! In this episode, Kara chats with Julie Crawford, founder of the lifestyle blog, KnittedBliss.com. Julie is smitten with the written word, cozy knits, international travel and domestic pleasures. On the knitted bliss blog, Julie helps knitters and crafters get inspired by sharing projects, recipes and reflections on the crafting life!   [Tweet "I'm listening to Knitted Bliss Blogger, Julie Crawford on #PowerPurlsPodcast #knittingpodcast"] Episode highlights: Julie shares her story and why she started Knitted Bliss, and how it's evolved over the years What inspires her weekly blog features - Modification Monday and Wee Wednesday Julie shares how she curates recipes and projects for the blog Consistency and showing up every week is the secret to her success How Julie diversifies her business, and how she generates income from Knitted Bliss How blogging has evolved since she began blogging As a special gift, Julie if offering a 40% off discount on all of her knitted bliss patterns. Vist: https://www.ravelry.com/designers/knittedblissjc to view the full collection. Enter powerpurls at checkout for 40% off any patterns. Offer ends November 21, 2017  Do you love the podcast? Support the show on Patreon and get: *Bonus episodes *Audio workshops that inspire intentional living through yarn crafting *Weekly minisodes delivered every Monday to inspire your week ahead.   Disclosure:  Please note that some of the links in this episode are affiliate links. I will earn a commission if you decide to make a purchase and there is no additional cost for you to do so.  When I make a recommendation, it is because I have personal experience with these products and have used them myself. I only recommend products I believe in and suggest them because I know they will be helpful, not because of the small commission I make if you decide to make a purchase. The commission I earn helps offset the production expenses that I incur to produce Power Purls, and by purchasing products through these links, also helps you to become a supporter of this podcast and for that, I am truly grateful.    

Today I'm answering a common question among budding knitwear designers: "Should I design for magazines?" We'll go over the main items you should consider before submitting a design proposal to a magazine, as well as my top tips for success in this area. If you've been wanting to grow your knitwear design biz, give this episode a listen! [Tweet "Should you design for magazines? Weigh the pros and cons with this week's episode of the #PowerPurlsPodcast #knitweardesign"] Episode highlights: It can be tempting to work for "exposure," hoping that will turn you into a superstar. Designing for magazines usually means you will get paid for your work, which is a big benefit! Once you know how much time it will take you to create a design and how much they'll pay, work the numbers. Remember: there's also a marketing benefit for magazine design! Your work gets out to a wider audience. Connection can be a benefit as well. Working with a magazine can connect you with influencers in the industry. Keep your eyes open for opportunities to form connections each time you collaborate on a design. Think about what you can offer above and beyond just sending in a pattern. Solve a pain point for the editor! Rights can be a tricky area for magazine design. For at least some time, the pattern rights will belong to the publication. Make sure you understand the rights agreement and if/when the rights revert to you! Remember that the photos in the magazine don't belong to you; if you republish a design, take your own photos. Even if the rights don't revert back to you at all, that's not necessarily a bad thing! Just make sure you're comfortable with the arrangement. Make sure the fit is right: does your work fit with the magazine and its audience? If not, find another one. Think like a businessperson: tailor your proposal/submission to the magazine you're trying to impress! Kara's tip #1: Keep trying until you get a YES! (No matter how many Nos you hear before that!) Being turned down by one magazine - or ten- does NOT mean that your work isn't good enough! Sometimes rejection just means your work didn't fit their theme or they had too many similar submissions. Kara's tip #2: Be professional! Put together a nice portfolio of your work to show the editor! Study how other designers are using Instagram well to present their portfolios. Maintain a professional website - it's like your virtual home base and it speaks volumes about you and your work. Follow the guidelines and format that the magazine specifies in their calls for proposals. Kara's tip #3: Diversify! Don't put all your eggs in one basket - publish your work in a variety of places. Be aware: If you send your designs out to different magazines, you can't send the same design to more than one place! Never send a previously published design as a proposal to a magazine. All designs must be original. Bonus tip: don't knit your own samples! Hire sample knitters - it will save you a ton of time.   Links Mentioned in this Episode: Trisha Malcolm's episodes - Episode 1 and Episode 72 If you need help with planning out your path to magazine publication, or you'd like someone to review your design proposals, book a FREE consulting session with me and we'll go over it together! Click here for all the details.   Do you love the podcast? Support the show on Patreon and get: bonus episodes audio workshops that inspire intentional living through yarncrafting weekly mini-sodes delivered every Monday to inspire your week ahead. Click the button to join our community!   Disclosure:  Please note that some of the links in this episode are affiliate links. I will earn a commission if you decide to make a purchase and there is no additional cost for you to do so.  When I make a recommendation, it is because I have personal experience with these products and have used them myself. I only recommend products I believe in and suggest them because I know they will be helpful, not because of the small commission I make if you decide to make a purchase. The commission I earn helps offset the production expenses that I incur to produce Power Purls, and by purchasing products through these links, also helps you to become a supporter of this podcast and for that, I am truly grateful.    

Today Kara talks to the Editorial Director and Vice President of Vogue Knitting, Trisha Malcolm. Trisha was the very first guest on this podcast, so we're so glad to have her back again today! Trisha is a magazine publisher with a focus on fashion-forward designs that adapt to the needs of today's knitters. Listen in as we talk about the special 35th anniversary issue of Vogue Knitting Magazine!   “It's a creative job because every issue is different, and every time something new happens, it's exciting!”   -Trisha Malcolm [Tweet "Behind the scenes of @VogueKnitting - listen in on the #PowerPurlsPodcast!"] Episode highlights: Trisha started her career as a high school teacher. Then she got a job at a crafting magazine because she was a teacher who also knew how to do several crafts. This year marks Trisha's 20th anniversary with Vogue Knitting! Vogue Knitting started in 1932, so even though this is our 35th anniversary, the brand is 85 years old. In 1972 they stopped publishing the magazine when Conde Nast sold the pattern side to Butterick Patterns and stopped the magazine. In the 1980s there was a big knitting boom again, and Trisha's boss asked Conde Nast to start publishing the magazine again. The magazine focuses on fashion, but Trisha feels this has become less important because fashion itself has become so much more casual in recent years. Trisha looks at online videos and photos for fashion shows each season, and then she finds all the sweaters and bundles those images together to create a trend report. Trisha is starting to see more shawls and wraps on the runway, and she thinks the designers are taking a nod from the knitters of the world (we love our shawls, don't we?). Trisha redesigned the magazine a year ago to include more "behind the scenes" with designers. Trisha has big plans to take the magazine into a broader digital environment in order to make the content accessible via phone. She doesn't envision that the print issue will disappear, though. For the anniversary issue, they invited regular advertisers to choose a favorite pattern from a past issue, and those patterns are now available for free for a limited time on the website. Trisha works with a small team of 8 to 10 members, and together they publish 6 issues of Vogue Knitting and also create Knit Simple Magazine together. It's important for Trisha to work with people who are, first and foremost, nice. Leave a comment telling us your favorite part of the newest issue of Vogue Knitting Magazine, and you could WIN a free subscription! Mentioned in this episode: Trisha's first episode on the podcast The 31st anniversary issue of Vogue Knitting magazine Deborah Newton's cover design for the issue - her "best design ever" - and you can win a kit to make it! The Vogue Knitting trip giveaway Stitchucation shawls challenge Tracey Purtscher's new book - featured in the anniversary issue The free collection of 35th anniversary patterns Learn more about Trisha and Vogue Knitting: Website: VogueKnitting.com Facebook: Facebook.com/VogueKnittingMag Twitter: Twitter.com/VogueKnitting YouTube channel Pinterest: Vogue Knitting   MOVE THE NEEDLE ON YOUR KNIT BIZ! Click here to sign up for a free 30-minute creative business strategy session with Kara!   Disclosure:  Please note that some of the links in this episode are affiliate links. I will earn a commission if you decide to make a purchase and there is no additional cost for you to do so.  When I make a recommendation, it is because I have personal experience with these products and have used them myself. I only recommend products I believe in and suggest them because I know they will be helpful, not because of the small commission I make if you decide to make a purchase. The commission I earn helps offset the production expenses that I incur to produce Power Purls, and by purchasing products through these links, also helps you to become a supporter of this podcast and for that, I am truly grateful.    

In this episode Kara talks to knitwear designer and regular coaching client, Francoise Danoy. Francoise is a self-proclaimed Yarn Alchemist: she transforms yarn into knitwear designs for her tribe of Fibre Muses to enjoy, and also teaches others how to become Yarn Alchemists themselves. Her mission is to evolve and grow, and right now the way she does that is by helping her Fibre Muses dive deep into themselves to find their creativity and magic. As a result of working with Francoise, a knitter can transform her yarn into a piece of fiber art, as well as discover and benefit from the magical properties of knitting, in order to create a more meaningful experience. “Knitting is a quiet kind of magic that not only allows us to take a skein of yarn and transform in into something new, but connects us to our past, helps us stay grounded in the present and shapes our future.”   - Francoise Danoy [Tweet "Inspiration abounds when designer @ArohaKnits talks business on the #PowerPurlsPodcast!"] Episode highlights:   Francoise was a guest on episode 26, and we're so happy to have her back again! Francoise is a knitwear designer living in Osaka, Japan. Her father is French and her mother is Maori. Francoise refers to herself as a yarn alchemist – she helps knitters transform their yarn into pieces of fiber art Francoise wants to inspire her fibre muses to help them feel confident about creating beautiful hand knits. She has been designing for 2.5 years, knitting for 3 years. Kara and Francoise work together with Kara’s 1:1 coaching service – they have had a monthly call for years now. Coaching gives Francoise an outside perspective on her business and lets her know she's not alone. Francoise says: When it comes to achieving goals, it’s less about succeeding or failing and more about doing the work. The accountability aspect of coaching helps Francoise with the “getting it done” portion of her goal-setting process. Francoise says that her sessions with Kara gives her a major confidence boost. She also loved getting in-person help with TNNA from Kara. Kara recommends the use of an editorial calendar to plan out your content each month and quarter. Francoise says her design process hasn’t changed over the years, but she is more efficient now. She also teaches that same process to others now so they can build a design business. How long does it take to make a design? For hats, 1-2 months, shawls 2-3 months, garments longer. The longest amount of time in the whole process is the test knitting. Kara recommends always hiring a test knitter in order to preserve your passion for knitting. Francoise says it’s still fun for her to knit her own designs, at least at this point. Francoise casts on one project, sees it all the way through, and immediately starts the next one. For her new collection, Francoise is batching by doing all the knitting, then all the pattern writing, then all the edits. Francoise likes to start her work around 9 and be finished with her non-knitting work by lunch. When she creates the sketches for her design, Fracoise tends to envision the colors at that point. Francoise prefers to use semi-solid colorways, blues, yellows, reds, purples. Her upcoming publication is going to feature more rustic and natural colors and warmer tones. Francoise  immediately started her knitting journey with the idea of incorporating Maori designs into her stitches. If she couldn't find a pattern she liked, she would make one up! This is what prompted Francoise to learn new techniques, so that she could incorporate that into her designs. For Francoise, knitting was an opportunity to reconnect with her mother’s culture and learn her own heritage. It is Francoise’s goal to help people have confidence to transform their yarn into amazing projects and make magic. Francoise is now going to a quarterly pattern collection release schedule instead of a monthly one. The biggest thing she’s struggling right now is shifting her mindset from short-term goals and deadlines to long-term. Kara recommends creating a spreadsheet to map out your goals and the timeline associated with it. Francoise is not influenced by the city where she lives (Osaka) for her design process. Francoise’s advice for the fiber arts business: "Just put yourself out there and see it through, just go for it." Mentioned in this episode: 8 steps to creating a killer design (Kara I can't find a landing page for this only a direct download?) Chelsea Fitch Francoise's Tokerau Shawl pattern Fiber Muse Alchemy kits – yarn club subscription from Francoise Swatch Studio The One Thing by Gary Keller   Learn more about Francoise and Aroha Knits: Website: arohaknits.com Facebook group: The Fibre Muse Circle Instagram: instagram.com/arohaknits     MOVE THE NEEDLE ON YOUR KNIT BIZ! Click here to sign up for a free 30-minute creative business strategy session with Kara!   Disclosure:  Please note that some of the links in this episode are affiliate links. I will earn a commission if you decide to make a purchase and there is no additional cost for you to do so.  When I make a recommendation, it is because I have personal experience with these products and have used them myself. I only recommend products I believe in and suggest them because I know they will be helpful, not because of the small commission I make if you decide to make a purchase. The commission I earn helps offset the production expenses that I incur to produce Power Purls, and by purchasing products through these links, also helps you to become a supporter of this podcast and for that, I am truly grateful.

In this episode Kara is joined by Leanne Pressly, the CEO of Stitchcraft Marketing. Principal owner and multi-hat wearing fearless CEO of Stitchcraft Marketing. Leanne holds an M.A. in Sociology and a B.A. in English and has 20+ years of experience in sales and marketing. Prior to starting the agency, she owned a website design and hosting business for 10 years. She’s been a knitter since she was 18 and loves to spin yarn, make her own clothes and quilt. She lives in Colorado with her husband, teenage daughter and a menagerie of pets. “The rapid pace of change means you're NEVER going to be in front of your social channels all the time. Half the battle is just having a solid social media plan and following through on the work. Let the rest go.”   -Leanne Pressly [Tweet "Soaking up TONS of #marketing advice from Leanne of @Stitchcraftmktg on #PowerPurlsPodcast!"] Episode highlights:   Leanne began her career in the fiber crafts when she met Deb Robson while pulling weeds on a farm in Colorado!  Listen to the episode to hear about Leanne's whimsical first knitting project. Leanne worked at Interweave while she finished her graduate school program in Colorado. Leanne's "light bulb moment" came when she realized that there was a need for fiber arts businesses to hire someone to mange their newsletters and social media.  Stitchcraft's clients own businesses in all areas of the hand crafting world, from fabric to yarn to paper crafts and more. Stitchcraft manages many different areas of a client's business, depending on that client's needs. Stitchcraft's sweet spot is social planning, strategy, and execution but they also offer content planning and marketing, pattern support, and more. Leanne advocates that even a B2B (business to business) company needs to have a social media plan and an active presence on social media channels. Leanne says that the growth in the industry has been mostly positive: "Competition's good for everybody - it raises all ships," she says. Leanne started a podcast so that she could share the common advice she gives several clients with a wider audience. Leanne loves to invite guests to the show who can share their expertise with her listeners. In her daily life, Leanne still knits and spins regularly. She loves a simple project to help her unwind at the end of a long working day. Marketing is in Leanne's blood: her mother was a marketer and her father was an entrepreneur.  Life and knitting have taught Leanne that she thrives best when she's focusing on the big picture. On Leanne's team, everyone has "a seat on the bus." So she builds that team according to the individual strengths that people bring to the bus. Leanne's big piece of advice for our viewers: "Don't be afraid to embrace what you're really good at, and really focus your career on that." What contributes to Leanne's day to day success? Zapier!    Mentioned in this episode: Deborah Robson's book: The Fleece and Fiber Sourcebook Stitchcraft Marketing - Leanne's company Spin Off Magazine Interweave Leanne's podcast, Business of Craft Episode 2: Leanne's interview with Staci Perry of VeryPinkKnits Smart Passive Income - Pat Flynn's podcast Tim Ferriss's podcast Zapier   Learn more about Leanne and Stitchcraft Marketing: Website: stitchcraftmarketing.com Business of Craft Podcast: stitchcraftmarketing.com/podcast Facebook: facebook.com/stitchcraftmarketing Instagram: instagram.com/stitchcraftmarketing/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company-beta/10152753/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/stitchcraftm/ Twitter: twitter.com/stitchcraftmktg   MOVE THE NEEDLE ON YOUR KNIT BIZ! Click here to sign up for a free 30-minute creative business strategy session with Kara!  

In this episode, Kara welcomes Abby Glassenberg, sewing pattern designer, craft book author, teacher, and writer. On her blog, WhileSheNaps.com, she writes about the sewing industry, running a creative business, and the online culture of craft.  Abby has been blogging since 2005 and shares the value of a blogging, and how hers is at the heart of her crafting business. She's also the co-founder of the Craft Industry Alliance, a trade association for crafting professionals. Abby has an undergraduate degree in history from Johns Hopkins and a master’s degree in education from Harvard. She taught middle school social studies in Mississippi through Teach For America, and 6th grade in the Newton Public Schools before becoming a textile artist. She’s the author of three sewing books. Abby lives in Wellesley, Massachusetts with her husband and three daughters. “Pursue your interests as though it was your job - every day, on a regular schedule, thoroughly and professionally. That’s how you build a job doing what you love.” -Abby Glassenberg [Tweet "I'm listening to maker, #podcaster & sewing designer @AbbyGlassenberg on #PowerPurlsPodcast!"]   Episode highlights: When she became a mom, Abby knew she wanted to figure out how to work from home Abby discovered blogging in 2004 at it's still the heart of her business Abby shares how she's always been intrigued in making and sewing and figured out how to combine this on her blog  Back in 2005, Abby crafted while her daughter Roxanne was napping, and came up with the name While She Naps for her blog Abby soon entered the world of Etsy with her stuffed animals, which is what Abby is best known for Abby discusses how the blogging world has changed since she started Blogging tools are easier to use today then they were back in the early days, but harder to get noticed How she founded Craft Industry Alliance with Kristin Link of Sew Mama Sew The Alliance offers a digital journal twice per month with articles written by professional writers  Abby explains Coffee Klatch - a monthly virtual meeting offered to members of the Alliance The future of Craft Industry Alliance includes live events for education and networking Why trade shows are essential especially for new designers starting out Importance of doing gut checks about your business and showing up every day The secret to Abby's success is inbox zero because when a new idea or offer arrives, she can jump on it! Mentioned in this episode: Sew Mama Sew  Craft Industry Alliance - CraftIndustryAlliance.org The National NeedleArts Association - TNNA.org Association for Creative Industries (formerly Craft Hobby Association) - CraftAndHobby.org Learn more about Abby and WhileSheNaps.com: Website: whileshenaps.com Facebook: Facebook.com/AbbyGlassenbergDesign Instagram: Instagram.com/AbbyGlassenberg   MOVE THE NEEDLE ON YOUR KNIT BIZ! Click here to sign up for a free 30-minute creative business strategy session with Kara!    

In this episode, we're talking all things weaving with special guest, Liz Gipson, known as Yarnworker in the yarn universe! We go beyond knitting and crochet and explore the influence that weaving has had in the yarn crafting world over the past several years. Liz shares her experiences, passion and knowledge as an expert weaver, editor, author and teacher. Liz writes a popular weaving for knitters column for Knitty and regularly contributes to blogs and fiber-related publications.She's the author of A Weaver's Guide to Swatching and has had numerous appearances on PBS, DIY and HGTV networks, where she introduced weaving and spinning to the yarn crafting world. Visit her Patreon Community and help Liz build her online weaving school! "Developing a strong responsible relationship with your readers and asking them to support you takes guts, but it's worth it. Authentic reader relationships pay off in so many unexpected ways and are infinitely satisfying—I firmly believe that community-funded content is the new black." -Liz Gipson   [Tweet "Hey, I'm listening to @Yarnworker talking all things weaving with #yarn on #PowerPurlsPodcast!"] Episode highlights: Liz shares how she launched a series of popular weave-alongs after she lost teaching samples How the weave-alongs spurred Liz into a new direction, launching her Patreon Campaign to create an online weaving school Liz expresses her gratitude that her weaving life allows for so many opportunities for reinvention She started her career as an occupational therapist, but then felt despondent and stumbled upon an opportunity to travel to New Zealand to learn about sheep and fiber production Liz studied wool science for a year in New Zealand which began her love affair with the yarn  How she began career in the early days of craft digital publishing Learn how Liz created a bridge to from weaving to the knitting and crochet world with the introduction of small looms Learn more about Liz: Website: Yarnworker.com Liz's books and products  Facebook: Facebook.com/Yarnworker Instagram: Instagram.com/yarnworker Patreon: www.patreon.com/LizGipson    MOVE THE NEEDLE ON YOUR KNIT BIZ! Click here to sign up for a free 60-minute creative business strategy session with Kara!   Disclosure:  Please note that some of the links in this episode are affiliate links. I will earn a commission if you decide to make a purchase and there is no additional cost for you to do so.  When I make a recommendation, it is because I have personal experience with these products and have used them myself. I only recommend products I believe in and suggest them because I know they will be helpful, not because of the small commission I make if you decide to make a purchase. The commission I earn helps offset the production expenses that I incur to produce Power Purls, and by purchasing products through these links, also helps you to become a supporter of this podcast and for that, I am truly grateful.  

In this episode, Kara puts on her editor's hat to talk about the top 10 mistakes new designers make so you can avoid them! In her experience as editor of Creative Knitting magazine, there are several of common proposal issues she would encounter. As you'll learn, some are very simple and easy to implement, but ... often easy to forget!    The world doesn't need another boxy sweater pattern. Tell the unique story behind your design. You are your own best marketing machine, and the design proposal is your best first impression. [Tweet "I'm listening to how to avoid the 10 common mistakes new #knit designers make on #PowerPurlsPodcast!"] Episode highlights: The 10 common mistakes, how you can avoid them if you follow these steps: Tell a story - share the vision behind your design and sell the editor on it! Clearly illustrate your idea through sketch or photo State the design skill level DON'T list yarn as "generic" - be specific! Know your yarn! What's hot and new? Do your research! Provide multiple swatches - especially for special shaping: armholes, necklines, bust shaping Follow the designer guidelines and style before submitting to a publisher/yarn company Deliver what you promise - if you suggest a garment then be ready to write your pattern in multiple sizes DON'T send your proposal in the body of an email with photo attachments DO create a 1-2 page pdf containing all the components in one document   Click here to get the free checklist! Click here to learn more about the benefits and rewards when you become a patron of Power Purls Podcast!

Makers and yarn crafters are talking more and more these days about how their craft is helping them to de-stress and create a sense of calm, and many use it as a vehicle to mindfulness and holistic living.    In this episode, Kara chats about how our knitting can be that bridge to a more meaningful and integrative approach to all aspects of our life. How it can help us be happy and well and connect body, mind and spirit.  Knitting often dictates life, and life often dictates knitting.   [Tweet "I'm listening to how to de-stress with #knitting on #PowerPurlsPodcast!"]   Episode highlights Creating rituals surrounding our knitting How knitting can serve our anchor when we feel the ground fall from beneath us  Knitting as a morning routine Why does knitting make us feel so good? What is knitting intuition and how can we trust in it? How spontaneously picking up your needles can be a form of therapy Bridging the gap between the technical and the divine Kara's journey to podcasting and her quirky approach Why Kara started Power Purls Podcast and where it's going Trusting the process when we're knitting even if we're not sure what comes next Kara shares her two parallel paths - creativity and heath and wellness and how she has "knit them together" Kara shares how her quest for wellness became passion to help others  How a knitting journal can be a mix of technical and creativity and doodles. Find your intuitive quirky approach  In the Power Purls Patreon Community, Kara shares "minisodes" that marry these two worlds How joining the Power Purls Community helps move the needle on your yarn crafting life PowerPurlsPodcast.com/Community to learn about workshops, challenges, unreleased recordings and group coaching   Become a member. Support the podcast. www.Patreon.com/PowerPurlsPodcast  

In this Q&A-style episode, Kara welcomes returning guest and "sidekick in crime," Tabetha Hedrick for another edition of Ask Kara & Tabetha Anything! Kara and Tabetha answer questions from live video audience during the live version of Power Purls Podcast, airing every Friday on the Power Purls Facebook page. Click here to watch the video and chime in with your own questions, or leave them in the comments below.  "How you put it all together thorough your own style, voice, and construction is what makes a design unique."  Episode highlights Judy asks: "How does one go about becoming a stitcher?"  Tabetha answers: It's all about reaching out and testing patterns. Kara answers: just get in there-- don't wait for all the ducks to be in a row! Fiber Boss Collective is a great resource for designers, knitters, with lots of activity about sample knitting and indie dyer resources. Why become a person of value by helping others in fiber groups will help you grow relationships. Why Ravelry is a good resource if you want to get into test knitting. Robin asks: "I am a combination knitter and I would like to know which stitches I need to do differently in order to follow a pattern and/or have my knitting turn out looking correct." Kara answers: If you are a combination knitter, purling English and knitting in Continental is a good idea because purling Continental can sometimes cause stitches to slant while working in Stockinette Stitch. Lousetta asks: "What makes a design unique and/or how many differences in a pattern makes it new? When can a designer claim it as a new submission? Tabetha answers: How you put it together thorough your own style, voice and construction is what makes a design unique. One of the biggest questions most new designers have is knowing if it's allowable to use stitch patterns from stitch dictionaries to integrate into a new design. Jennifer asks: "How did you get started in the knitting/yarn industry? and how long did it take you to gain a following? I just designed & published my first pattern (working on my second one now) and I have a 2x a week vlog but I am so new that I do not have a large following. Help!" Kara answers: focus on building community and the big "P" word -- PATIENCE and why this is essential in the beginning. It's about creating a community and growing this overtime. It doesn't take a huge following to make a sustainable living.  Tabetha answers: keep on designing, and give personalized attention with yarn companies. Don't give up! Kara shares why it's beneficial to look outside of the fiber world and gather ideas from mainstream online business people. Resources Fiber Boss Collective - A thriving community, founded by Chelsea Fitch for knitters, crocheters, indie dyers and designers. 1000 True Fans by Kevin Kelly (very long, but worth reading!) Gabby Bernstein - self-proclaimed spirit junkie and encourager. Marie Forleo - life coach and founder of BSchool [Tweet "Do you have a BURNING knitting question? Join the conversation on the Power Purls Facebook page and Ask Kara & Tabetha Anything!"] Become a member. Support the podcast. Disclosure:  Please note that some of the links in this episode are affiliate links. I will earn a commission if you decide to make a purchase and there is no additional cost for you to do so.  When I make a recommendation, it is because I have personal experience with these products and have used them myself. I only recommend products I believe in and suggest them because I know they will be helpful, not because of the small commission I make if you decide to make a purchase. The commission I earn helps offset the production expenses that I incur to produce Power Purls, and by purchasing products through these links, also helps you to become a supporter of this podcast and for that, I am truly grateful.

Today's guest is Kara Gott Warner, the host of the Power Purls Podcast and is the former executive editor of Creative Knitting Magazine. The Power Purls Podcast is a weekly podcast where Kara empowers newbie knitting entrepreneurs to start and grow a thriving passion-crafted business through engaging conversations with knitwear designers, industry rock stars and everyday knitters with compelling back stories. In fact, her latest episode is a conversation with our SweetGeorgia Knitwear Design Director, Tabetha Hedrick. Kara is on a new journey of creating a business in knitwear through her podcast and delivering video-based knitting education and workshops through her Patreon community. (Just a note, halfway through our conversation Kara had to switch from her microphone to her phone, so the sound quality changes halfway through, in case you were curious!)

Che Lam is the creator behind the knitting blog, Handy Kitty. She was once the in-house knitwear designer at Drops Design in Norway. Today, she she works as a freelance designer, with her designs gracing the pages of popular knitting magazines, including Knit Scene, Creative Knitting, and Pompom.She is also the author of Learn How to Knit with 50 Squares. Che is a contributor to the Annie's Signature Designs Spring Breeze Collection of knit and crochet pattern designs.  Originally from Hong Kong, Che currently resides in Gothenburg, Sweden. Fashion and design has always been a passion of hers, although she graduated as a civil engineer. She followed her heart to pursue the dream of being a knitwear designer.    "I love to create simple and aesthetically pleasing things. As a designer, to see my ideas taking form from sketches to finished knitting, and finally as inspiration for others, is the best feeling ever!" - Che Lam   [Tweet "5 BIG questions to ask yourself before designing knitting patterns with Che Lam on #PowerPurlsPodcast!"] Episode highlights: Che offers advice for someone wanting to start out designing with the 5 BIG questions to ask yourself. The top skills that every aspiring designer should know. Che says make the design process fun -- make it like a game and play!  The inspiration behind her designs in the Annie's Spring Breeze Collection. How to get started with learning how to size (grade) garments. How to start with one size then understand that, then she added more sizes.  Designing tip: buy a children's pullover, take measurements and test the waters with garment construction on a small scale. How to find out more about Che: Website: www.HandyKitty.com Che's Lookbook: www.handykitty.com/look-book  Ravelry: www.ravelry.com/designers/handy-kitty Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/handykitty Mentioned in this episode: Annie's Signature Designs: www.AnniesSignatureDesigns.com  Grading resource: The Craft Yarn Council  Support Power Purls on Patreon! Check out the details here to learn how to become a patron of the show... there are some pretty sweet rewards for getting in on this ground-floor level!

Does working with color excite you? Are you curious about what it takes to manufacture hand-dyed yarns?  If so, listen in as  Kara Gott Warner interviews Beth Casey, owner of Lorna's Laces, one of the first hand-dyed yarn companies, about her fulfilling and creative work in her wonderful world of yarn.    Beth Casey, business owner and entrepreneur, has been supplying the globe with colorful yarns since 2003. This has afforded her the special advantage of witnessing a new wave of thinking in the way we look at yarn. Ten years later, she introduced Mrs. Crosby, releasing a  whole new range of vibrant possibilities. Listen and find out more about the ins and outs of what happens behind the scenes in the exciting business of running a yarn company, in this week's episode of Power Purls Podcast.   Join Kara and Beth as they discuss:   What prompted Beth to start a hand-dyed yarn company. The fun process of choosing and putting together the colors for a season. How Beth's company manages to keep its finger on the pulse of current trends and tastes. What distinguishes Beth's company from the other ones, from a business perspective. Where Beth's job satisfaction lies. Why Beth chooses to keep her company small. The importance of remaining positive. The delicate balance involved in taking responsible risks. How Beth overcame her notion that she was not born creative. Beth's advice when it comes to choosing color. Beth's take on the TNNA. (The National Needle Arts Association) The difference between Mrs. Crosby and Lorna's Laces. The fabulous surprise giveaway to a lucky listener.     Links:   Lorna's Laces: www.lornaslaces.net   Mrs. Crosby:  www.mrscrosbyplays.com   Give-away: powerpurlspodcast.com/bethcasey

Welcome to Power Purls Unplugged, with me, Kara Gott Warner. Your comments have shown me that the raw, unpolished aspect of a live podcast certainly has an appeal to many of you. I love getting your feedback. It's been necessary, in order to balance the different time zones and to find the best time frame for this show. Join me today, as I talk to the Power Purls Facebook Group, live, while recording my podcast. We will discuss what being creative with your knitting means to you. Take your knitting to the next level. Let's keep the conversation going!    Catch me live at 12pm EST Fridays, on Facebook.com/PowerPurlsPodcast. To watch past broadcasts, you can find them in the video library on the Power Purls Facebook page.   Episode Highlights:   Kara talks about how to make more space and margin time for creativity The inspiration for making FB live a podcast - my episode with Marly Bird What does “creative” mean in knitting creatively? Listen to my episode with Marly Bird and become inspired! Kara talks about: How the indirect passion for sitting with knitting for hours on end has given me certain things in my life. Can you take a chance with your knitting? Go without a pattern and see what comes? Don't be afraid while attempting something. Kara says: “Those magical mistakes are where the magic happens”. Get crazy and try a new way! See what happens! How different gauges of yarn can really be a creative feature Feeling intuitive? Just jump in! Go with it! Try it! Just keep going and “embrace those beautiful holes”. Kara urges and encourages you to “go free, without a pattern and try it out”. You can stand a chance to win a “swagbag” worth over $100 from Plymouth Yarn! How you can support the show and get some sweet rewards and perks for as little as $1.   With special thanks to my Patreon supporters! Support Power Purls on Patreon! Check out the details here to learn how to become a patron of the show... there are some pretty sweet rewards for getting in on this ground-floor level!  

Welcome to Power Purls Unplugged! You asked, I'm answering! If you signed up for the Power Purls Podcast newsletter, you know that I asked you this question: What kind of podcast topics appeal to you most? 65% of you want lifestyle stories and 63% want to know about the business side of design. So I spent some time digging into your comments and questions and today I'll be answering them here and then turning the tables and asking you --  What kinds of topics appeal to you most as a Power Purls listener and what do you want more of?   Catch me live at 12pm EST Fridays, on Facebook.com/PowerPurlsPodcast. To watch past broadcasts, you can find them in the video library on the Power Purls Facebook page.   Episode highlights: Kara answers one of the biggest questions: How do I start a knit design business? Kara says: Just start! -- let your passion drive you. Put yourself out there with just one idea and get started. Don't put a dollar sign on your passion! How you can sign up for my newsletter and get my free designing guide. Why it's important to tell YOUR story We don't need another pattern, so what is it that makes you different? Listen to my episode with Vickie Howell who is a great example of how you are your brand.  Don't give your patterns away for free as your main business model. How to work with magazine like Creative Knitting -- and use the guidelines to help develop your skills. Join Facebook Groups like The Fiber Boss Collective to learn the biz and network with other designers. Get scrappy and use mainstream models to grow your design business. The myth of work/life balance- it's more about knowing when to make the right choices at the right time. Support Power Purls on Patreon! Check out the details here to learn how to become a patron of the show... there are some pretty sweet rewards for getting in on this ground-floor level!

We've gone a little crazy pants and broadcasted live on Facebook, and... turned it into this podcast episode! with Tabetha Hedrick, Design Director of Sweet Georgia Yarns. I thought it would be an interactive way to bring you another edition of Ask Kara & Tabetha Anything. We answer a listener question about pattern grading and how to create balance between life, work and finding time for our knitting. If you want to watch the original video broadcast, you can check it out, and you can also catch me live at 12pm EST Fridays, on Facebook.com/PowerPurlsPodcast. To watch past broadcasts, you can find them in the video library on the Power Purls Facebook page.   Episode highlights: How we are turning the video version of Unplugged into a podcast episode. When it comes to grading (sizing) patterns, is this the designer's or the publisher's job? Sizing standards for designers and hobby knitters: www.craftyarncouncil.org Does the publisher provide a tech editor for designers patterns? When to hire a tech editor to size your patterns. Kara and Tabetha debate this topic! Work/life balance is learning to "take turns" as Crochet! editor Ellen Gormley explains in episode 021  You can do everything you want, but just not at the same time. We're looking for a way to put everything in a neat box, but we live in an imperfect. If balance is a myth, what can we do what matters most in the moment. Learning to say no and practicing acceptance because we can't control the universe.  

Today I continue with this topic of knitting with a mindful intention on today's edition of Power Purls Unplugged on this #FreeformFriday! Do you struggle unless you see the end result? Is starting with the end in mind always the right way to start? Paying attention to what's happening moment by moment is what this episode explores today. and the idea of deciding in advance to "cultivate not knowing" the end can provide you with special surprises that you wouldn't find unless you let go. Not knowing the next step in both life and knitting can be a roller coaster ride of uncomfortable and exciting feelings, but so worth experiencing this as part of our life's journey.    Join me every Friday at 12pm EST on Facebook.com/PowerPurlsPodcast for my live broadcast. To watch past videos, you can find them in the video library on the Power Purls Facebook page.   Episode and video highlights: Forget the pattern, focus on the stitches and movement. Don't let skill levels defeat you. If you see something you love - then go for it. Don't let the comfort of knowing the end take over. Be a stitch adventurer! Do you think of frogging as torture or a learning experience? I'm often reminded in my life of the wise words of my late grandfather - "Try it you'll like it!" he was always right. How we often hold on to wanting our finished project to be a certain way, but what if that doesn't happen? Support Power Purls on Patreon! Check out the details here to learn how to become a patron of the show... there are some pretty sweet rewards for getting in on this ground-floor level!

Welcome to another edition of Power Purls Unplugged on this #FreeformFriday! In today's episode let's dig into the concept of mindful vs. mindless knitting and explore what this REALLY means to us as knitters? Join me every Friday at 12pm EST on Facebook.com/PowerPurlsPodcast for my live broadcast. To watch past videos, you can find them in the video library on the Power Purls Facebook page. Episode and video highlights: We're never really mindless when we are knitting, but rather fully and completely engaged. Looking at knitting as a freeform art form. Can you let go of "the pattern?" Does the thought of not having a road map for your knitting make your fearful of the unknown? "Mindless" knitting is in fact it's the most mindful way to knit. It puts us so viscerally close to the craft. How spontaneous knitting allows us to focus on the tactile feeling of the yarn gliding through our fingers, the sound of our needles clicking and marveling at the work that is made after knitting just a few rows. The most amazing -- we see something, that just a short time ago was not there. The magic of making something with our hands. What could be more amazing than that? Becoming a fearless knitter! Paint your world with your needles.

Welcome to another edition of Power Purls Unplugged on this #FreeformFriday! In today's episode I talk about the power of keeping either a written or visual journal and how this can help influence our knitting and life in general.  Join me every Friday at 12pm EST on Facebook.com/PowerPurlsPodcast for my live broadcast. To watch past videos, you can find them in the video library on the Power Purls Facebook page. Share and use the hashtag #PowerPurlsUnplugged

Welcome to another edition of Power Purls Unplugged on this #FreeformFriday! Today's episode is short and sweet! I ask you what that pivotal moment was that brought you to knitting. Was it the loss of a loved one, change of career, the birth of a child? Whatever it is I want to dig deep with you. In this episode I share mine and invite you to go back in time to the moment that changed it all for me! Join me every Friday at 12pm EST on Facebook.com/PowerPurlsPodcast for my live broadcast. To watch past videos, you can find them in the video library on the Power Purls Facebook page. Episode and video highlights: I share the moment that I knew I wanted to make knitting my life and career. Why we need to not only rely on passion, but understanding the skills that are important to turn passion into profit. Learn from my upcoming guest, Tina Whitmore of Freia Handpaint Yarns, and how she keeps the fire going in her business.

Welcome to another edition of Power Purls Unplugged on this #FreeformFriday! This episode is a mixed bag of topics. First on the list, I'll be breaking down The 8 Essential Steps to Creating a Killer Proposal which is a free guide offered to anyone wanting to start working with magazines and book publishers. In this episode, I also share details about upcoming trends for the fall knitting season, and the exciting things I found on my trip to The National NeedleArts Trade Show in Washington DC in June. I'll also be sharing a preview of my next interview with Tina Whitmore of Freia Handpaint Yarns which goes live on July 25th. Join me today at 12pm EST on Facebook.com/PowerPurlsPodcast for my live video because I'll be doing a deep dive into the best practices when it comes to creating a design proposal and all the necessary components you'll need to get started as an independent designer. You don't want to miss it, because it's your chance to ask me your biggest knitting and designing questions. To watch past broadcasts, you can find them in the video library on the Power Purls Facebook page, and if you missed me live, you can join me every Friday at 12 noon EST to watch live! For more episodes like this visit: www.PowerPurlsPodcast To subscribe on iTunes: itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/power-purls-podcast/id1043956186 To get Kara's FREE 8-Steps to Creating a Killer Design Proposal: https://karagottwarner.leadpages.co/leadbox/145c10c73f72a2%3A166d5aeedb46dc/5730450056151040/ Support the show! www.Patreon.com/PowerPurlsPodcast

Welcome to another #FreeformFriday! Today I’m recording from Podcast Movement Chicago! I’m thrilled to be here meeting fellow podcasters and learning how I can fine tune Power Purls Podcast so I can continue doing what I do best and that is getting behind the mic to share my most authentic stories. I’ll be talking more about this in my live video as well as sharing other powerful takeaways, so please join me today at 12pm EST on Facebook.com/PowerPurlsPodcast and every Friday. To watch past broadcasts, you can find them in the video library on the Power Purls Facebook page. For more episodes like this visit: www.PowerPurlsPodcast To subscribe on iTunes: itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/power-purls-podcast/id1043956186 To get Kara's FREE 8-Steps to Creating a Killer Design Proposal: https://karagottwarner.leadpages.co/leadbox/145c10c73f72a2%3A166d5aeedb46dc/5730450056151040/ Support the show! www.Patreon.com/PowerPurlsPodcast

Welcome to another #FreeformFriday where I share my random ramblings about what’s happening on the podcast, and what I’ll be talking about on today’s Facebook Live broadcast at 12pm EST. Last week I broadcasted at 4pm, but I’ll admit it was a bit late in the day and if you happened to join me, you may have noticed it was a bit noisy in my backyard! So today, I’m back on track at 12pm EST, talking about the book and giveaway I shared in episode 032 with Carol Sulcoski. Also, in this episode I ask you a question that I’d like you to answer in the comments today on my video. I hope you’ll chime in on today’s convo! To join in, visit me at: www.Facebook.com/PowerPurlsPodcast. For more episodes like this visit: www.PowerPurlsPodcast To subscribe on iTunes: itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/power-purls-podcast/id1043956186 To get Kara's FREE 8-Steps to Creating a Killer Design Proposal: https://karagottwarner.leadpages.co/leadbox/145c10c73f72a2%3A166d5aeedb46dc/5730450056151040/ Support the show! www.Patreon.com/PowerPurlsPodcast

Carol J. Sulcoski is an attorney by day, and spends the rest of her time as a knitting author, hand dyer and designer. Her most recent book, Knitting Ephemera, is a volume of facts, anecdotes, historical tidbits, and other fun information about knitting and the fiber world. Carol has also authored a variety of other books such as, Lace Yarn Studio (Lark Crafts 2015); Sock Yarn Studio (Lark Crafts 2012); Knitting Socks With Handpainted Yarns (Interweave 2009) and Knit So Fine (Interweave 2008). Self Striping Yarn Studio will be released by Lark Crafts in August 2016. In addition to writing about knitting and the yarn industry for magazines like Vogue Knitting. Creative Knitting and Yarn Market News, she teaches at national shows and local yarn shops; sells unique hand dyed yarns as Black Bunny Fibers; and has many published pattern designs. Carol lives outside Philadelphia with her family. For more episodes like this visit: www.PowerPurlsPodcast To subscribe on iTunes: itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/power-purls-podcast/id1043956186 To get Kara's FREE 8-Steps to Creating a Killer Design Proposal: https://karagottwarner.leadpages.co/leadbox/145c10c73f72a2%3A166d5aeedb46dc/5730450056151040/ Support the show! www.Patreon.com/PowerPurlsPodcast

TGIF! It's another freeform Friday of Power Purls Unplugged! This episode of random ramblings covers what you can do to become a conduit for creativity. I talk about 4 ways you can do this, and I'll also be chatting about this on my Facebook Live video, broadcasting June 24 @4pm EST. Join me here: www.Facebook.com/PowerPurlsPodcast and then check the video archives for the June 24 video. For more episodes like this visit: www.PowerPurlsPodcast To subscribe on iTunes: itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/power-purls-podcast/id1043956186 To get Kara's FREE 8-Steps to Creating a Killer Design Proposal: https://karagottwarner.leadpages.co/leadbox/145c10c73f72a2%3A166d5aeedb46dc/5730450056151040/ Support the show! www.Patreon.com/PowerPurlsPodcast

In this workshop-style solo episode, Kara discusses 3 proven strategies for getting unstuck so you can start your knit design business, or move the needle on your existing one. Kara shows you how to systematically distill down to that one over-arching thing you really want, and how to set a course to get it! Kara uses these strategies herself, and knows they work. It's up to you to decide to put the wheels in motion and give them a try for yourself. It's her mission to help you succeed on your designing journey, and to take a holistic approach to your life and career so you can create a healthy balance between both. For more episodes like this visit: www.PowerPurlsPodcast To subscribe on iTunes: itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/power-purls-podcast/id1043956186 To get Kara's FREE 8-Steps to Creating a Killer Design Proposal: https://karagottwarner.leadpages.co/leadbox/145c10c73f72a2%3A166d5aeedb46dc/5730450056151040/ Support the show! www.Patreon.com/PowerPurlsPodcast

On today's episode I welcome Barry Klein, owner of Trendsetter Yarns. Barry grew up in the knitting industry by working in his mother's yarn shop. Barry learned how to design patterns and eventually began designing knitwear for his yarn shop customers and the movie industry. Barry and his Mom started Trendsetter with the idea of bringing the most exciting textured and fashion yarns to the knitting customer. In 2012, Lotus Yarns joined the Trendsetter family, offering a collection of luxury fibers. 24 years since the start of Trendsetter, Barry continues to guide the company and create on-trend yarns and knitting patterns. Barry has published 5 knitting books, appeared on a variety of craft television shows, is a knitting spokesperson and teacher at Stitches Events, Vogue Knitting Live, and trunk shows. Barry has been a voted member of “Top 10 Men who Knit Throughout History.” For more episodes like this visit: www.PowerPurlsPodcast To subscribe on iTunes: itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/power-purls-podcast/id1043956186 To get Kara's FREE 8-Steps to Creating a Killer Design Proposal: https://karagottwarner.leadpages.co/leadbox/145c10c73f72a2%3A166d5aeedb46dc/5730450056151040/ Support the show! www.Patreon.com/PowerPurlsPodcast

Welcome to another Ask Kara & Tabetha Anything episode! In this off-the-cuff convo-style episode, Tabetha and I chat about Creative Knitting Magazine, TNNA, Sweet Georgia Yarn, and a doozy of a question from caller Jenny Clark. Also, this episode is the first of it's kind and a little daring for us because it's raw and unedited! It's just us, right out the the gate from the moment I hit record. You're getting it all...no intro music, no editing. The bottom line is, I know you want good content. It's not about fancy background music. We think you'll really like this radical new approach! For more episodes like this visit: www.PowerPurlsPodcast To subscribe on iTunes: itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/power-purls-podcast/id1043956186 To get Kara's FREE 8-Steps to Creating a Killer Design Proposal: https://karagottwarner.leadpages.co/leadbox/145c10c73f72a2%3A166d5aeedb46dc/5730450056151040/ Support the show! www.Patreon.com/PowerPurlsPodcast

In this episode, I chat with Francoise Danoy, knitwear designer, Instagram guru and Marketing maven, who designs under the label Aroha Knits. Her brand's mission is to enrich, encourage and empower creatives in the fiber industry so that they can fearlessly pursue their goal of running a small fiber business. You'll learn how Francoise took her Instagram following to over 15k loyal followers and she will explain exactly how she did it! To read to the full show notes and get the free guide: www.PowerPurlsPodcast. com To subscribe on itunes: itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/power-purls-podcast/id1043956186

Today I'm chatting with Lena Skvagerson, the lead designer and visionary behind Annie's Signature Designs. Lena draws from 25 years in the European design markets before joining Annie's in 2014. We talk about her vision for the new Annie's Signature Designs Summer Love Collection and her experience as Associate Producer and Expert on the Annie's PBS television show, Knit and Crochet Now! Enter to win the Chamisal Knit Tee Kit here: www.powerpurlspodcast.com/LenaGiveaway (Contest ends midnight, April 30, 2016) To read the show notes: www.PowerPurlsPodcast.com/025-lena-skvagerson To subscribe on iTunes: itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/power-purls-podcast/id1043956186

In this episode, Vickie talks with Kara Gott Warner, the host of Power Purls Podcast and Executive Editor of Creative Knitting Magazine. They discuss the zig-zagging career paths of creative achievers, daily inspiration, and why creativity matters! This episode is sponsored by Kitterly.com. Listen for a special 20% off code exclusively for CRAFT-ish listeners.

Today I welcome two-time Emmy© winner and New York Times Bestselling author Deborah Norville to Power Purls! Deborah is known to millions as anchor of Inside Edition, the nation's top-rated syndicated news magazine. She is also a huge crafter, loving knitting, crochet, sewing, macrame, embroidery, needlepoint and cross-stitch. Deborah kicks off Season 7 (April 2016) as the new Host of Knit and Crochet Now!, the popular Annie's television show seen on PBS stations across America. In 2008, Deborah partnered with Premier Yarns to create her own collection of high quality super-soft yarns named the Deborah Norville Collection, which started with just four yarns and now boasts over 20 yarns and a full range of dyed birchwood knitting needles and crochet hooks. She is also the author of Knit with Deborah Norville a collection of more than 18 projects and classic patterns for knitting. Deborah is married to Karl Wellner and is the mother of three. She can be reached via her website www.DeborahNorville.com and on social media as @DeborahNorville. For more episodes like this visit: www.PowerPurlsPodcast.com To subscribe on iTunes: itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/power-purls-podcast/id1043956186

How Passion Manifests in Unexpected Ways... In this short and sweet solo episode I talk about a recent ah-ha moment and ask you a thought provoking question about how your own knitting passion drives your life and what it would be like without it. Personally, I would not be where I am today if it wasn't for my passion for knitting. Looking back at the stepping stones is amazing-- first as a budding a designer, then embarking on an illustration freelance career, to becoming the Executive Editor of Creative Knitting Magazine and Host of Power Purls Podcast. This passion has also helped me pay forward my nearly 15 years in the industry through business coaching for creative entrepreneurs. Question: How has your passion for knitting manifested in ways that supports your life personally and professionally? How different do you think your life would be without knitting? For more episodes like this, visit: www.PowerPurlsPodcast.com To subscribe on iTunes: itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/power-purls-podcast/id1043956186

Today's episode is a double header. I'm interviewing Kara Gott Warner, host of Power Purls Podcast, and she's interviewing me! Read on for more details and then have a listen to both episodes. About Kara Gott Warner Kara is the Executive Editor of Creative Knitting magazine. She began her career in the yarn industry as a knitting designer in 2002. Kara's designs have been published in several magazines, including Creative Knitting, Vogue Knitting, Family Circle Easy Knitting, and Interweave Knits. Kara has also worked as a technical illustrator, working with craft book publishers such as Random House, Lark Books, Sterling Publishing and F+W. Kara joined Annie’s Publishing in 2008 as knitting book editor, and she became the Executive Editor of Creative Knitting and Annie’s knitting publications. Kara's also a podcast host! Her first show, the Morning Cooldown is a seasonal program that is currently on hiatus. Knitters and yarn industry folks may prefer her latest show, Power Purls Podcast, where she loves to dig deep and ask those burning questions about what turned her guests on to the “two sticks and fiber,” in the first place, and what keeps their needles moving. You can find Kara online on her website, as well as on Facebook and Twitter. About the interview Kara shares an editor's perspective on the magazine design submission process, along with tips for increasing your likelihood of getting a design accepted, and how to build a strong relationship with a magazine as a freelancer. We also talk about the importance of networking within the industry, developing multiple streams of income, and using morning rituals to increase your productivity. Resources mentioned in this episode Kara recommends the following books: The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert Jocelyn Glei's Make Your Mark, Manage Your Day-to-Day, and Maximize Your Potential,  Designing Knitwear by Deborah Newton Knitwear Design Workshop by Shirley Paden Sweater Design in Plain English by Maggie Righetti You may want to listen to these back episodes of the Creative Yarn Entrepreneur Show for more discussion about topics addressed in this episode: Episode 1 Episode 43 Episode 49 Episode 56 You can find Kara's interview with me on Power Purls here. If you enjoyed this episode The Creative Yarn Entrepreneur Show is no longer broadcasting. Episodes are available as a service to the yarn community. This episode originally aired in March, 2016. Be aware that content may be outdated. If you'd like to chat with other yarn-related business owners, join the Creative Yarn Entrepreneurs Facebook group. Support Marie's work by buying one of her books, Make Money Teaching Crochet: Launch Your Business, Increase Your Side Income, Reach More Students (Amazon | Gumroad) or Design It, Promote It, Sell It: Online Marketing for Your Crochet and Knit Patterns (Amazon | Gumroad).

Today I'm chatting with Ellen Gormley, Editor of Crochet! magazine and expert on the Annie's PBS television show, Knit and Crochet Now! Ellen has authored five crochet books and published hundreds of crochet designs and she teaches for Annie’s Online Classes. Ellen shares her insights about designing, the importance of persistence, work/life balance and why it's time to create a bridge from knit to crochet. In this episode, we also discuss details for how you can enter for your chance to win a 1-year subscription to Crochet! magazine. Enjoy! For more episodes like this: www.PowerPurlsPodcast.com To subscribe on iTunes: itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/power-purls-podcast/id1043956186

Today I'm chatting with Laura Zander about her amazing connection to the new movie, Eddie the Eagle, starting Hugh Jackman and Tarron Edgerton. In this episode, Laura tells the story about how a Hollywood producer (who happens to be a knitter herself!) reached out to Laura in order to spread the word about the movie, and how a very special red and white sweater is the common thread that symbolizes love, community, following your dreams and knitting for those you love. To get listen to more episodes visit: www.PowerPurlsPodcast.com To subscribe on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/power-purls-podcast/id1043956186

In this episode, I'm chatting with knitwear designer, and Bayareaknitter Podcast host, Christine Marie Chen. Christine was born in Oklahoma, but has lived and traveled worldwide. She loves working with her hands. and considers knitting the ultimate therapy. Finding inspiration everywhere, Christine's hand knitting patterns have been published in Creative Knitting magazine and other popular knitting magazines, yarn companies and through Ravelry. Christine lives, raises her children, and knits from her home in the San Francisco Bay Area. Visit www.PowerPurlsPodcast.com for the full lineup of episodes. To subscribe on iTunes: itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/power-purls-podcast/id1043956186

Today on the show, I am talking to Kara Gott Warner, Executive Editor of Creative Knitting Magazine and host of the Power Purls Podcast. Kara began her career designing knitting patterns in 2002 and her designs have been published in several magazines, including: Creative Knitting, Vogue Knitting, Family Circle Easy Knitting and Interweave Knits. Kara also has a background as a technical illustrator, working with craft book publishers. She first joined Annie's Publishing in 2008 as knitting book editor, and then in 2010 signed on as Executive Editor of Creative Knitting Magazine and Annie's knitting publications. This past fall, Kara launched her new podcast, Power Purls, where she asks her guests to dig deep and explore what turned them on to knitting in the first place.

Today’s podcast episode is motivated by Aimee’s desire to have all of her listeners hear her guest’s story. Kara Gott Warner, Creative Knitting Magazine Executive Editor, and host of Power Purls Podcast, began her career designing knitting patterns in 2002. Her designs have been published in several magazines, including: Creative Knitting, Vogue Knitting, Family Circle Easy Knitting and Interweave Knits. Kara has a background as a technical illustrator, working with craft book publishers such as Random House, Lark Books, Sterling Publishing and F+W. Kara first joined Annie's Publishing in 2008 as knitting book editor, and then in 2010 signed on as Executive Editor of Creative Knitting Magazine and Annie’s knitting publications. Through Power Purls Podcast, Kara's mission is to dig deep and ask those burning questions about what turned her guests on to the “two sticks and fiber,” in the first place, and what keeps their needles moving! TWEET: If you just focus on one small aspect of your industry, it’s going to be hard ~ Kara Gott Warner The negative power of pigeonholing yourself. When Kara Gott Warner began working full time as editor of Creative Knitting Magazine, she became aware of the ease with which knitters could pigeonhole themselves. To her, it seemed that too many would lump themselves into a certain skill category and feel that they were unable to move from there. Kara felt that the categories needed to be broader, so she created new categories to enable people to more easily move from one to the next without as much fear of stepping out of their comfort zone. Isn’t that a great parable for life? We all too easily think of ourselves in one set way when the reality is that each of us has the ability to grow, mature, and increase in skill so that we are not today what we were tomorrow. Hear more of Kara’s insights on this episode. Luck is when preparation meets opportunity. It’s common nowadays for people to talk about the impossibility of overnight success and today’s guest, Kara Gott Warner agrees. Her journey from an unhappy financier to editor of Creative Knitting Magazine was almost a decade long. She attributes the success she’s experienced to constant motion in the same direction. She wasn’t standing still. She was moving toward what she wanted, preparing herself, learning, growing in the skills it would take to become what she wanted to be. In this episode Kara unpacks her thoughts about how that happened in her own journey and gives some advice about the importance of preparing yourself for the future while you’re waiting for the opportunities to come. TWEET: I was on a trajectory I didn’t like and my husband encouraged me to quit ~ Kara Gott Warner When you truly care about something you just can’t quit. Kara Gott Warner had a reintroduction to knitting in her early 20s. It became a place of solace and personal therapy for her at the end of a hard or busy day. She fell in love with knitting and began designing patterns of her own. But it wasn’t long before she realized that she wanted to somehow make her love for knitting into a career. That might sound crazy because knitting doesn’t sound like a very lucrative business niche, and it’s not. But Kara didn’t care about that. Her desire was to always have knitting be near the center of her life and that included  her work. So she set out in that direction and never looked back. Even though hard times came, she didn’t allow herself to become discouraged because she cared about knitting so much.  Aimee does a great job of drawing out Kara’s story and the lessons she’s learned on her way to the top, so be sure you listen in to this inspiring episode. Looking back, what things would you change? Most of us have missteps or regrets of one kind or another - both small and more serious. But when Aimee asked  her guest, Kara Gott Warner what she would change if she could start her journey over, Kara said, “Not a thing.” She believes that everything she’s been through has been for her own growth and development and that if any of those things were magically changed, she wouldn’t be the person she is today. Now THAT is a refreshing perspective, and Kara’s full of them. You can hear the entire conversation Aimee had with Kara, Editor of Creative Knitting Magazine, on this episode of Chasing Dreams. TWEET: I’m blown away by the broad scope of people I’m touching ~ Kara Gott Warner OUTLINE OF THIS EPISODE: [1:03] Aimee’s introduction of her friend, Kara Gott Warner. [4:30] The big, BIG world of knitters. [5:27] The negative power of pigeonholing yourself. [8:15] The challenges beginning knitters face and things Kara has done to help. [8:57] Resources Kara recommends for beginning knitters. [11:02] How Kara got interested in knitting in the first place - and the place it has taken her. [13:56] “Luck is when preparation meets opportunity.” [15:08] Sticking with it until she made it. [18:00] The size of the knitting industry and the people it reaches. [19:10] The connections and impact the Power Purls Podcast is having. [21:10] How Kara came to create a podcast. [25:27] Why Kara’s story inspires Aimee and the power of something you care about. [29:26] Looking back on her journey: Would Kara change anything? [31:04] The Rapid Fire Game! - Category: Magazines [34:01] Kara’s recommendation: “Big Magic” by Elizabeth Gilbert KARA’S RECOMMENDATION: BOOK: Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert QUOTE: “Take the first step in faith. You don’t need to see the whole staircase, just take the first step.” ~ Martin Luther King, Jr. AIMEE’S RAPID FIRE GAME! - Category: Magazines Aimee and her guest play a quick response game, based on a randomly drawn topic. Once they begin, the first to pause too long, give an obviously wrong answer, or repeat an answer that’s already been given, will be the loser. WHO’S GOING TO WIN? RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: www.StitchGuide.com - Knitting site for beginners PowerPurlsPodcast.com The Morning Cool Down Podcast Creative Knitting editor’s blog: www.splendidsticks.com www.CreativeKnittingMagazine.com www.KaraGottWarner.com Kara on Twitter: www.Twitter.com/karaknits Kara on Instagram: www.Instagram.com/karaknits1 Kara on Facebook: www.facebook.com/powerpurlspodcast TWEETS YOU CAN USE: TWEET: If you’re struggling and confused, it’s a sign you need to stop. It’s not time ~ Kara Gott Warner TWEET: You don’t need to see the whole staircase, just take the first step.” ~ Martin Luther King, Jr.