Knitch Magazine

Kara Gott WarnerShe blogs, she knits, she designs, she sells on Etsy, she writes and edits books (The Divine Drop Stitch, Circular Knitting Redefined), and oh yes, she’s editor of a national knitting magazine. It’s safe to say that Kara Gott Warner, who learned to knit at age 12 from her grandmother, enjoys a life thoroughly intertwined with knitting, and she wouldn’t have it any other way. The executive editor of Creative Knitting and DRG Publishing’s other titles—and the busy mom of two-year-old son London-- Kara recently took time out for a conversation with Knitch.com, about her work, and her world:

Knitch: What is the most satisfying thing about your job?

Kara: The most satisfying aspect is coming up with the initial concept for a book, or themes for a magazine issue. I thoroughly enjoy researching what the new trends will be for color, stitch pattern and silhouettes for the coming seasons. When the designs come rolling in, it’s like putting together the pieces of a puzzle, and it’s exciting to watch an issue magically unfold.

Knitch: In your work, you see a wealth of designs. How do you know when something is a winner? What kind of details most appeal to you as projects that will work well in the magazine or a book?

Kara: When I see a stellar design, something will jump out at me instantly. It might an interesting use of stitch pattern, or silhouette, but sometimes it’s that magical little thing that I can’t put my finger on. Knowing when a design is a winner can also be based on instinct, mixed with an understanding of what the reader is after: the kinds of patterns that are not only stylish, but practical to knit too. There are also times when a gem of a design stands out because it’s completely innovative and may not necessarily follow any rules.

Knitch: We've seen knitting and crocheting take off in popularity the past few years. Everyone in the industry has a different view on how and why this is the case. What is your take?

Kara: The Internet is more and more accessible, and the technology has made it easy for just about everyone to use and share information. If it wasn’t for Etsy, I would not have had the great fortune of finding so many talented designers that I’ve featured in the magazine and books.

Kara is Executive Editor of Creative KnittingKnitch: The Internet really has changed publishing, just as it's changed so much else. Do you find there is as much demand for printed books and magazines?

Kara: I definitely think that the demand is still there for the print version, and it’s not going to change any time soon. There will always be people who just need to have that printed issue. There’s something special about being able to turn the pages of a magazine. You just can’t get that online. Some of our subscribers don’t use the online version, so the print version is their only option. But the online version has offered our readers another dimension to the magazine, because being a paid subscriber to Creative Knitting magazine provides the benefit of bonus patterns that aren’t available in print

Knitch: Your days are no doubt jammed to the brim but please give Knitch Magazine readers a glimpse at a "typical" day for you.

Kara: No two days are ever alike. But the first thing I do is check the mass of email that arrives in my inbox each morning. I then assess my schedule and plan my most important tasks for the day. Working in publishing is highly deadline-driven, so I’ve gotten into the daily habit of reviewing my schedule for approaching deadlines. Many of my days are filled with running from meeting to meeting, while others are spent quietly at my computer writing copy, proofreading or planning a layout.

Knitch: With the world of knitting at your feet, between books and magazines, your blog, Etsy and sample projects, do you ever need to take time away from yarn and fiber? If so, what else do you do for enjoyment?

Kara: I’m very passionate about fiber arts, and admit at times I have to force myself to shift gears. I’m as passionate about my health and wellness as I am about the creative side of my life. I create space each day for exercise and relaxation activities, such as yoga and meditation. I also enjoy spending as much time as I can with my husband, Jay, and son, London.

Knitch: You graduated from Parson’s School of Design, and have been in and around fashion as an adult. But while growing up, what did you want to be?

Kara: I’ve been interested in the arts for as long as I can remember. From the time I was about 10, I always kept a sketch book. I dated and wrote my age on top of each drawing. Around age 12, I was clear on wanting to become a fashion designer. I wasn’t quite sure what that would entail, but I loved playing with my “Fashion Plates” for hours on end.

Read our review of Kara's new book.Knitch: Kara, what is your personal favorite thing to knit, for yourself or for others?

Kara: I’m so fickle! I know many knitters can totally relate. I’ll admit, quick and easy can be good, because it’s nice to relax on the couch and knit without having to fumble with directions, but from time to time, I enjoy designing and knitting pullovers for myself. My favorite yarn weight is DK weight. I love its delicate quality, and because it’s a light-weight yarn, it’s so practical for year-round sweaters.

Knitch: Do you favor straight or circular needles? Are you drawn more to texture or color?

Kara: I definitely enjoy working circular needles the best. I love the rhythm you can create when knitting seamlessly. I’m also one of those knitters who hates to seam, it’s my least favorite part of the process. I’m also a bigger fan of stitch pattern as opposed to color, but I’ve been known to do two-color knitting from time to time.

Knitch: Please talk a little about some of the knitting books you've worked on, particularly the one about finishing (a topic so many knitters shy away from) ---is getting such a book into the hands of knitters a bit like teaching?

Kara: The recent hard cover book that I worked is called The Perfect Finish. When I first took this on, I was a bit intimidated, because it really took me out of my comfort zone, so I dove in head first. I contacted specific teachers in the knitting industry, known as experts in their field. I also sent out a call to the several other designers who specialized in other finishing techniques as well. To my surprise, this book has turned out to be a labor of love. I was determined to present the material in an unintimidating way, so that all knitters would feel comfortable with the process. We’ve already gone into the second reprint!

Another exciting book is Simple Hip Knit Scarves. This is a compilation of on-trend scarf designs, just in time for gift giving. There are scarves to keep toasty warm, while there are others accessorize that perfect outfit!

Knitch: As you travel to book signings and other appearances, what do you hear most from knitters?

Kara: Knitters are always looking for something easy, yet stylish. I know that is the ultimate challenge, to design something easy, while not boring. When talking to designers, my mantra has become “show me something brilliantly simple.” I also hear lately that designers would rather make something that takes less time. They don’t mind investing in an expensive ball of yarn, if they can produce one beautiful scarf. Scarves seem timeless for knitters. It doesn’t matter what season, they want to make scarves because those entail little time and investment.