Welcome Marie Greene

We’ve had a crush on Marie Greene’s sweater designs for quite some time; her style is classic yet modern with a focus on everyday wear, which we just love!  So it is with great excitement that we will be hosting her this month at Monarch for two sweater workshops.  Along with her visit, she has designed a special pattern just for us and has graciously taken the time to share a bit about herself…

How did you get started knitting/into fiber arts?

My grandmother taught me to knit when I was about 10 years old and I took to it immediately. I’d always been a crafty kid and loved embroidery and sewing, as well, so I’ve pretty much been a fiber artist as long as I can remember.

What led you to Olive Knits/designing full time?

Prior to pattern design I was a hospital finance project manager (and occasional freelance writer).  I started moonlighting at a yarn shop just to support my hobby, and customers started asking about my sweaters. I’d designed them for myself and had never really written anything down, but was intrigued by the prospect of turning them into patterns. Before I knew it I had a willing team of testers that helped me hit the ground running.

Your sweater designs are so lovely!  Where do you draw inspiration from or what inspires you the most?

I love classic, timeless style with modern features. I draw inspiration from my home near the Oregon coast, from my travels around the world and especially from architecture. I love clean, crisp lines and strategic details that showcase texture. Most of all, I design garments I really want to wear and that work in my wardrobe.

When you’re not traveling and teaching around the world, what are some of your other hobbies/interests?

I love to cook. If I’m really stressed, I’ll lock myself away in the kitchen with a glass of wine and some good music and just chop, simmer and whisk away an evening. Time alone in the kitchen, especially if I don’t have to hurry, is the most soothing thing in the world – it’s serious zen.  I also love learning new things and am constantly on a mission to improve my French speaking skills (I’m really rusty).

What’s your most favorite fibers and colors with which to knit?

Lately I’m on a dusty pink kick, but in general I’m obsessed with grey, yellow and rusty oranges. I’ve loved orange and yellow since I was a child, so it’s really nothing new for me. But as I’ve grown up I lean toward sophisticated versions of these colors.

Current WIPs, FOs or any sneak peeks into what’s next for Olive Knits?

I’ve just finished writing my first book (Seamless Knit Sweaters in 2 Weeks), and have already embarked on book two with my publisher, so right now being an author is consuming the bulk of my time and energy.  That said, I’m working on several new indie projects, including a series of fundamental sweaters for the capsule wardrobe. But I always have twenty designs percolating in my head, and it’s just a matter of needing more hours in the day so I can design and knit them all.

We love taking peeks into people’s knitting & notion bags!  What’s in your notion bag? Or which bags do you like to use?

I love ALL THE BAGS. I think I was born a bag lady. My project bags house everything from extra hair ties to Starbucks instant coffee packets to extra pairs of earrings. You’ll also find ear plugs, ear buds, a Tuft lotion bar (Bay & Olive scent), lipstick, a notebook, Excedrin and and an extra phone charger. (Can you tell I travel a lot?) And of course there are at least two knitting projects and all the useful knitting tidbits I may or may not need.

Favorite thing to listen to/do while you knit … podcast/book/movie/show/etc?

I love to binge listen (or watch) true crime documentaries, Chef’s Table or Food Network Chopped.

You’ve taught countless workshops and classes, do you have any favorites?

I think my favorite class is The Pick-Up Artist. It’s actually quite demanding to teach because it’s so hands-on, but the content is incredibly unique and students always leave SO excited about the new ideas. I think all of my classes are terrific, but that one is just extra special. Ironically, it’s probably the hardest one to teach, too, because there’s so much one-on-one time, but the results are worth it.

Congratulations on your upcoming book!  We bet you’re just so excited!  Any sneak peeks? Where can our readers find details?

Thank you! I’m excited, too. It’s actually already available for preorder: Seamless Knit Sweaters in 2 Weeks

Many thanks to Marie Greene for indulging us on our blog!  We cannot wait for her visit this month.  If you didn’t get a chance to sign-up for her workshops, let us know so we can bring her back next year!  And now for our something fun…